Module - 4

NATURE-BIOINSPIRED MATERIALS AND MECHANISMS

Echolocation, Photosynthesis. Bird flying, Lotus leaf effect, Plant burrs, Shark skin,
Kingfisher beak. Human Blood substitutes - hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) and
Perflourocarbons (PFCs).

ECHOLOCATION:
Echolocation occurs when an animal emits a sound wave that bounces off an object, returning
an echo that provides information about the object’s distance and size.

Ultrasonography
Ultrasonography is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency (higher than
20000Hz) sound waves travel through the body and bounce back off of the internal organs
and tissues. The returning echoes are captured by the ultrasound machine and used to create
images of the internal structures.

Working Principle of Ultrasonography

The working principle of ultrasonography is based on the reflection of high-frequency sound
waves.
Transducer: An ultrasonography machine consists of a transducer that is used to emit and
receive high-frequency sound waves. The transducer is placed in direct contact with the skin.
Reflection of sound waves: The sound waves encounter boundaries between different tissues
and organs and bounce back, creating echoes.
Reception of echoes: The transducer in the ultrasonography machine receives the echoes and
sends the information to a computer, which processes the data to create images.
Image formation: The computer uses the information from the echoes to create images of
the internal organs and tissues of the body.
Uses of Ultrasonography
Used in a wide range of medical applications, most common uses of ultrasonography include:
Gynecology: Ultrasonography is commonly used to monitor the growth and development of
a foetus during pregnancy.
Abdominal imaging: Ultrasonography is used to image the organs of the abdomen, such as
the liver, gallbladder, pancreas and kidneys.
Musculoskeletal imaging: Ultrasonography is used to image the muscles, tendons, and
ligaments to diagnose conditions such as muscle strains, tendonitis, and ligament sprains.
Vascular imaging: Ultrasonography is used to image blood vessels, such as the arteries and
veins, to diagnose conditions such as blood clots and blockages.

Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy
from the sun into chemical energy stored in organic molecules.
Light-Dependent Reactions:
Light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll
↓
Water molecules split through a process called photolysis, releasing electrons, protons (H+),
and oxygen (O2).
↓
The excited electrons captured by NADP+ and converted to NADPH
↓
Adenosine diphosphate (ADP) combines with inorganic phosphate (Pi) to form adenosine
triphosphate (ATP). This process is known as phosphorylation
↓
Oxygen molecules are released as a by product into the atmosphere.

Light-Independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle)

Chlorophyll takes CO2 from the atmosphere
↓
ATP and NADPH, produced provide energy and electrons for the reduction
↓
Glucose produced during the Calvin cycle can be stored for later use

Bionic Leaf (Mimicking Photosynthesis)

A bionic leaf is a system that uses artificial photosynthesis to convert sunlight into usable
forms of energy, such as hydrogen fuels, fertilizers.
Components of Bionic Leaf
Light Harvesting System: The bionic leaf includes photovoltaic cell that captures sunlight
and converts it into electrical energy
Catalysts: The bionic leaf incorporates catalysts, such as enzymes (Examples: Hydrogenase,
Nitrogenase, etc.) to facilitate the chemical reactions involved in photosynthesis.
Carbon Dioxide Source: Bionic leaf requires a source of carbon dioxide can be obtained
from concentrated carbon dioxide solutions.

Working principle of bionic leaf

Sunlight is captured and directed to the bionic leaf.
↓
Sunlight energy is used to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen
(2 H2O 2 H2 + O2)
↓
The oxygen gas produced is released into the atmosphere.
↓
The bionic leaf also absorbs carbon dioxide from the air or a supplied source
↓
CO2 reacts with hydrogen in the presence of catalyst to form carbon-based compounds, such
as formic acid or methane.
[CO2 + H2 Fuel]

Applications
 Can be used for fertilizer production
 Fuels can be used as clean energy sources for various applications, including
transportation, electricity generation, and heating.

Mechanism of bird Flying

Birds fly by flapping their wings and using their body weight and the movement of the air to
stay aloft.
Basic principle of bird flying can be understood by considering the combination of
1
Aerodynamics forces (Lift, weight, drag, thrust) and Bernoullis principle (𝑃 ∝ )
𝑉

Science behind bird flight:

Wing shape: When air flows over an airfoil, the air flows faster over the top of the wing and
slower under the wing. The faster flowing air exerts a lower pressure than the slower moving
air. The pressure difference causes an upward force called lift, which enables the bird to fly.
Wing Muscles: Birds have strong flight muscles attached to their wings. The upstroke and
down stroke motion of the wings generates thrust, helping the bird to move forward through
the air.
Hollow Bones: Birds have lightweight bones that are hollow and filled with air sacs,
reducing their overall weight.
Respiratory System: Birds have a unique respiratory system that allows for efficient oxygen
exchange. Air flows unidirectional through their lungs, as well as through a system of air sacs
located throughout their body.
Feathers: Feathers play a crucial role in flight. They provide both lift and control.

Aircrafts (Mimicking Bird flying)

The aircraft flight is directly influenced by the principle of bird flight.
Aircrafts also uses the principle of Aerodynamics forces (Lift, weight, drag, thrust) and
1
Bernoullis principle (𝑃 ∝ 𝑉)

Like bird wings airplane wings are also shaped to make air move faster over the top of the
wing. When the air moves faster, the pressure of the air decreases. So the pressure on the top
of the wing is less than the pressure on the bottom of the wing. The difference in pressure
creates a force on the wing that lifts the wing up into the air.
Aerodynamics forces includes:
Thrust: The force that moves an airplane forward through the air. Thrust is created by a
propeller Drag: The air resistance that tends to slow the forward movement of an airplane.
Lift: The upward force that is created by the movement of air above and below a wing. Air
flows faster above the wing and slower below the wing, creating a difference in pressure that
tends to keep an airplane flying.
Gravity: The force that pulls all objects towards the earth.

Lotus leaf effect (Super Hydrophobic and Self-Cleaning Surfaces)

The ability of lotus leaves to repel water and self-clean through their unique surface structure.
This effect has inspired the development of super hydrophobic and self-cleaning surfaces
The Principle of Super hydrophobic Surfaces
The super hydrophobic effect refers to the ability of certain surfaces to repel water and resist
wetting. Super hydrophobic surfaces are characterized by a high contact angle between water
droplets and the surface
Applications
Architecture and Building Materials
Solar Panels
Anti-Fogging Windows and Mirrors
Textiles industry

Materials and Examples

Several materials and coating techniques are used to prepare super hydrophobic surfaces.
Fluoropolymers: Fluoropolymer-based coatings are widely used for super hydrophobic
surfaces due to their low surface energy and water-repellent properties. Ex-
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) coatings.
Silica-based Nanoparticles: Silica nanoparticles applied to surfaces to create super
hydrophobicity. Ex- alkylsilanes.
Carbon-based Materials: Carbon nanotubes are distributed randomly to form a rough
surface with hydrophobic properties.

Plant Burrs and Velcro

Plant burrs, such as those found on burdock, inspired the invention of Velcro, a popular hook-
and-loop fastening system.
Materials Used in Velcro Technology
Velcro technology uses two main materials: nylon and polyester.
 The nylon is extruded to create tiny hooks that are then cut and shaped into the
familiar hook shape. These hooks are designed to latch onto the loop side of the
Velcro.
 The loop side of Velcro is made of polyester. Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is
strong and durable. The polyester is woven into a fabric that has many tiny loops.

Engineering Applications of Velcro Technology

Clothing and footwear:
Velcro is commonly used in clothing and footwear for closures and adjustable straps.
Medical devices:
Velcro is used in medical devices such as braces, splints, and compression garments for its
adjustable and secure fastening capabilities.
Automotive industry:
Velcro is used in the automotive industry for a range of applications, such as securing carpets
and headliners, and attaching door panels and seat cushions.
Packaging industry:
Velcro is used in the packaging industry for closures on bags, pouches, and other types of
packaging.
Sports equipment:
Velcro is used in sports equipment, such as helmets and gloves, for its ability to provide a
secure and adjustable fit.

Shark Skin and Friction Reducing Swim Suits

The denticles on shark skin reduce drag and increase swimming efficiency. These structures
disrupt the flow of water around the shark's body, reducing turbulence and minimizing the
formation. This reduces the resistance the shark experiences as it swim, allowing it to move
faster and with less effort.

Frictionless Swim Suits

Shark skin has inspired the development of friction-reducing swim suits, which are designed
to improve the performance of swimmers by reducing drag in the water. Friction-reducing
swim suits use a similar structure to that of shark skin to reduce drag and improve swimmer
performance.

Materials Used
The materials used to create friction-reducing swim suits inspired by shark skin include:
Polyurethane: A type of polymer that is commonly used in the production of swim suits, as
it is durable and can be moulded into a variety of shapes.
Lycra/Spandex: Lycra and spandex are made from the same synthetic fiber, called elastane.
Elastane fibers are typically composed of polyurethane which is then blended with other
fibers like nylon, polyester, or cotton) that is known for its stretch and flexibility.

Kingfisher Beak and Bullet Train

Its unique shape and structure enable the kingfisher to minimize the impact of water
resistance and achieve a successful dive.
The Physics behind the Kingfisher Beak
Streamlining:
The beak of a kingfisher is long, slender, and sharply pointed, which helps reduce drag or air
resistance as the bird dives into the water.
Surface Tension:
The sharp beak of the kingfisher helps to pierce through the water's surface, breaking the
surface tension and reducing the force required to enter the water.
Minimizing Splash:
The shape of the beak helps to reduce the splash generated upon entry. The beak's narrow and
pointed design helps create a smooth entry by
Technological Importance
The use of the kingfisher beak as a design inspiration for the front of the bullet train is an
example of how nature-inspired engineering can lead to innovative solutions that improve the
performance and efficiency of machines
Aerodynamic Design:
The front of the Shinkansen is designed to reduce air resistance and improve aerodynamic
performance. The streamlined design minimizes drag as the train travels at high speeds. The
tapered shape reduces the pressure difference between the front and rear of the train, reducing
noise and vibration.
Pressure Wave Reduction:
When a high-speed train moves through a tunnel, it creates pressure waves that can cause
noise and discomfort for passengers. The nose of the Shinkansen is designed to reduce these
pressure waves by effectively managing airflow and minimizing the compression and
expansion of air as the train enters and exits tunnels.
Human Blood Substitutes
Human blood substitutes are synthetic products that are designed to act as a replacement for
blood in the human body.
Basic Requirement for Human Blood Substitutes Effective Oxygen Transport:
Human blood substitutes must be capable of efficiently carrying and delivering oxygen to the
body's tissues.
Types of HBS
There are two types of human blood substitutes –
Haemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs)
Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
HBOCs are based on the haemoglobin molecule, which is the protein in red blood cells that
carries oxygen to the body's tissues. Haemoglobin is extracted from human or animal blood
and then modified to create a stable, synthetic version.
PFCs are synthetic molecules that are similar in structure to the haemoglobin molecule.
However, unlike HBOCs, they do not require modification from natural sources. PFCs are
able to dissolve oxygen and transport it throughout the body, similar to the way that red blood
cells work.
Advantages of haemoglobin-based oxygen carriers
Increased oxygen-carrying capacity:
HBOCs can potentially carry more oxygen per unit volume than whole blood.
Universal compatibility:
HBOCs can potentially be universally compatible with any blood type.
Longer shelf life:
HBOCs have the potential for longer storage and shelf life compared to donated blood, which
has a limited lifespan.
Reduced risk of infections:
Blood transfusions carry a small risk of transmitting infections, such as viruses or bacteria,
from the donor to the recipient.