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From Nature to Nanotech
Biomimicry
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Blue Morpho Butterfly
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IridescenceWhat is iridescence?
– Colors change depending on the angle at which you look at the surface
• Different thicknesses, like with bubbles, can create iridescence.
• Nano and micro features, as in the blue Morpho butterfly, also cause iridescence.
Close-up of peacock feather
The iridescence in Blue Bedder flowers attracts pollinators
What does iridescence do in nature?– Attract mates or pollinators– Camouflage
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Blue Morpho Butterfly Wing
Scanning Electron Microscope image of the Blue Morpho butterfly showing repeating nanoscale features responsible for iridescence.
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Biomimicry of Iridescence
Biomimicry of iridescence is used for security on currency and credit cards.
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Biomimicry of Iridescence
Qualcomm has a new e-screen that mimics the iridescence of the blue Morpho butterfly. The screen gets brighter in sunlight.
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The Lotus Effect
Lotus leaves and nasturtium leaves are self-cleaning due to nano and microscale structures and a waxy coating.
Together these features create a superhydrophobic surface.
Close-up of a nasturtium leaf, which exhibits the Lotus Effect, with a droplet of water
University of Wisconsin MRSEC
The Lotus Effect
University of Wisconsin MRSEC
Biomimicry of the Lotus Effect
Lotusan paint mimics the lotus plant’s self-cleaning properties.
Nano-Tex fabric repels liquids and stains, also mimicking the Lotus Effect.
Nature’s inspiration Biomimicry
http://www.itsnature.org Getty Images courtesy of Speedo
Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe
Burrs Velcro
Sharkskin Fast Swimsuit
Termite Dens Self-cooling Buildings
