Underwater vehicles haven’t changed much since the submarines of World War II. They’re rigid, fairly boxy and use propellers to move. And whether they are large manned vessels or small robots, most …
Fish fins are teaching us the secret to flexible robots and new shape-changing materials
The big idea Segmented hinges in the long, thin bones of fish fins are critical to the incredible mechanical properties of fins, and this design could inspire improved underwater propulsion systems, …
Material Profile: Humble Bee
In honor of National Bee Day (August 21, 2021), we're showcasing this material from the Biotech company Humble Bee Incorporated. Humble Bee (MC 936401) is an engineered water-repellent and …
Biomimicry
In this series, Jennifer Gumpert, our VP of Business Development and Operations, walks us through material terms and concepts that are used frequently, but not always understood. This week: circular …
Biomimicry in Performance Sportswear, Naturally
The sportswear industry has had to choose between performance and renewability. Textiles, for example, are typically coated with toxic perfluorinated compounds to make them water-repellant. Senior …
Continue about Biomimicry in Performance Sportswear, Naturally →
Design Against Extinction
From unprecedented brush and forest fires to record-breaking rainfalls, the effects of global warming will require us to adapt and prepare for an intense future. In response to these changes, Material …
Materials Report: Synthetic Spider Silk
Artificial or synthetic spider silk garners continued interest due to its promise of combined high strength and elasticity. It is considered by many to be the ‘next generation’ of natural fibers that …
Materials Report: Biomimicry
Today’s automotive and aerospace engineers seek stronger, lighter, and more fuel-efficient alternatives to traditional plastics, while the biomedical industry seeks highly targeted biologic drugs and …
