Biomimicry

Biomimicry: Nature’s Blueprint for Innovation

What is Biomimicry?

• Biomimicry involves imitating the models, systems, and elements of nature to solve human problems.
• Through billions of years of evolution, organisms have developed highly efficient structures and strategies.
• This concept has led to the development of new technologies inspired by natural solutions at both the macro and nano scales.
• Applications of biomimicry range across fields and are at various stages of development, from commercial products to experimental prototypes.

Early Examples of Biomimicry

• Rock-Cut Architecture (6000 BCE): Humans have long drawn inspiration from nature. In India, ancient Buddhist temples and shrines were carved into caves and mountain sides, imitating natural rock formations. These structures also served as trade posts along the Silk Road.
• Silk (3000 BCE): One of the earliest examples of biomimicry is the production of silk, which dates back to 4000 BCE. Inspired by silkworms, the Chinese learned to harvest and use silk, revolutionizing fabrics. Today, silk remains a widely used material globally.
• Pyramids (2470 BCE): Though numerous theories exist regarding the construction of the Egyptian pyramids, one hypothesis suggests that their design was inspired by mountains. This natural shape provided structural stability and durability.
• Myths and Legends: Humans have always been fascinated by nature’s abilities. The story of Daedalus and Icarus is an example, where Daedalus invents wings to fly, inspired by birds. This myth illustrates humanity’s early desire to emulate nature.

Why Teach Biomimicry?

• Biomimicry encourages us to see nature not just as a resource but as a source of knowledge. Trees, for example, don’t only provide building materials but also demonstrate remarkable technologies such as energy storage, water movement without pumps, and carbon capture.
• Educators can use biomimicry to introduce biology, STEM subjects, and systems thinking. By learning from nature, students can develop creative solutions to complex problems.
• Teaching biomimicry provides:
• A new perspective on science and engineering, by connecting disciplines to real-world scenarios.
• Opportunities for design-based learning and problem-solving.
• A deeper appreciation for sustainability and the environment.

Modern Examples of Biomimicry

• Velcro: Inspired by burrs that stuck to his dog’s fur, George de Mestral developed Velcro. Upon examining the burrs under a microscope, he noticed tiny hooks that clung to loops, which he replicated in the form of Velcro using nylon. This fastening system is now widely used in countless industries.
• Sharkskin-Inspired Swimsuits: Sharkskin’s rough texture is composed of overlapping dermal denticles, which help reduce drag in water. Swimsuits based on this design became famous during the 2008 Summer Olympics. The technology has also been applied to boats and hospital surfaces to reduce bacterial growth.
• Diatoms as Solar Cells: Diatoms, single-celled algae, produce nanostructured silica skeletons that can be used in dye-sensitized solar cells. By incorporating materials like titanium dioxide into these structures, researchers have created new energy-efficient devices that could revolutionize solar energy.
• Beetles for Water Collection: In the Namib Desert, darkling beetles collect water from fog using the bumps and grooves on their wing scales. This design has inspired technologies for water collection systems in arid climates, offering potential solutions to water scarcity.
• Gecko’s Grip: Geckos can walk up walls and across ceilings thanks to the microscopic hairs (setae) on their feet. These hairs create a strong adhesive force. Engineers have developed synthetic adhesives that mimic this property, which can be used in a variety of applications, including advanced braking systems and medical adhesives.
• Umbrellas: The Chinese umbrella, invented 1,700 years ago, was inspired by the flexible design of lotus leaves. Lu Ban observed how children used lotus leaves to shield themselves from rain, which led to the development of silk umbrellas.

Advantages of Biomimicry

1. Disrupt Traditional Thinking: By asking, “How would nature solve this problem?” teams are encouraged to explore new, innovative solutions. This approach combines systems thinking and design, while drawing on nature’s time-tested strategies.
2. Multi-Functionality: In nature, structures often serve more than one purpose. For instance, tree leaves not only provide shade but also produce energy. Mimicking this efficiency in design can lead to more sustainable solutions.
3. Adaptability: Nature thrives by adapting to its surroundings, leveraging available materials and energy. Biomimetic designs can help us create sustainable solutions that are well-suited to their environments.
4. Resilience: Nature demonstrates resilience through variation, decentralization, and feedback loops. Biomimicry teaches us how to create systems that can adapt and thrive in the face of challenges and change.
5. Curiosity and Collaboration: Biomimicry fosters a deep sense of curiosity about nature’s solutions and promotes collaboration across disciplines. It encourages us to rethink our processes and systems, fostering innovation through interdisciplinary cooperation.

Conclusion

• Biomimicry has advanced civilization by helping humans innovate through the imitation of nature’s designs. However, rapid industrialization has led to environmental degradation and resource depletion.
• Biomimicry presents a solution to these challenges by offering methods that are more sustainable and aligned with nature.
• The future of biomimicry lies in the integration of natural principles with modern technology, potentially allowing for the creation of products that are more compatible with the environment. This approach promises a future where technology not only meets human needs but also helps restore and sustain the natural world.

Bibliography

• https://www.scienceabc.com/innovation/what-is-biomimicry-definition-real-life-examples.html
• https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biomimetics
• https://ehistory.osu.edu/exhibitions/biomimicry-a-history
• https://architecturever.com/2019/09/07/levels-of-biomimecry-and-its-importantance-part3/
• https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2011/ee/c0ee00306a#!divAbstract
• https://medical-technology.nridigital.com/medical_technology_mar20/spider_silk_a_sticky_solution_to_traditional_sutures
• https://www-sciencefocus-com.cdn.ampproject.org/v/s/www.sciencefocus.com/future-technology/biomimetic-design-10-examples-of-nature-inspiring
• https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/tape-inspired-spider-webs-could-revolutionize-surgery-180973450/
• https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn14902-gecko-grip-material-aims-to-be-the-end-of-glue/
• https://stemazing.org/biomimicry-powerpoint-presentation/