Insects Inspire New Biodegradable Plastics

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Traditional plastics are the children of oil; they are derived from the photochemical process. Since their inception, synthetic plastics have left an indelible mark on society. According to the U.S. National Park Service, however, plastic bottles can take up to 450 years to fully decompose. While they do eventually degrade, they are not considered truly biodegradable. Instead, they accumulate in landfills and oceans, killing wildlife and polluting our environment.

Biomimetic Butterfly Coating Could Save Lives

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Blast-induced traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the "signature wound" of the recent conflicts Iraq and Afghanistan. Without any real quantitative method to indicate the magnitude of blast exposure, soldiers affected may not receive appropriate medical care. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have recently developed at new blast badge inspired by the wings of butterflies.

Pitcher Plant inspires worlds "Slipperiest Surface"

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In any system where liquid is handled or encountered, unwanted liquid-surface interactions are usually a limiting factor. They trigger blood clotting in biological interfaces, nucleate icing, create drag in transport systems, and promote biofouling. We already know that the microstructure of the lotus leaf and the coatings it has inspired are known to exhibit superhydrophobicity  and self-cleaning when water rolls off of them. Despite this, the technology is still plagued with problems which restrict their practical application. They show poor performance with oils and fail under pressure or mechanical damage such as abrasions or torsion. In order to widen the range of application for these type of repellant surfaces, researchers at the university of Harvard have created a similarly functional technology inspired by the Nepenthes pitcher plant. Their new surface is essentially omniphobic, is composed of low cost materials, and self heals.

Lotus Leaves Inspire Self Cleaning Superhydrophobic Surfaces

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In some Asian cultures, the lotus plant is considered a symbol of purity. The large fan-like leaves of the lotus plant stay dry and pristine despite the muddy ponds and lakes the plant calls home. How does his work and what does it mean to us?

Sharklet: The Antimicrobial Properties of Sharkskin

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Last post we learned that the unique pattern of sharkskin allows the animals to reduce drag and move more efficiently through  the water. But that's not the only advantage to the small scales covering sharks. It turns out that the fish's scales also prevent microorganisms from attaching and growing. 

Mussel Glue Could Save Lives

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A new type of glue, one that mimics the ability of the mussel  to hold itself to just about anything under turbulent water, is being developed in multiple universities and labs around the world. One of its major applications could be a bio compatible glue that could help hold tissue together after injury or surgery.