| Abstract Scope |
Natural systems have evolved efficient strategies to construct composites from a limited selection of starting materials that exhibit exceptional mechanical properties that are frequently superior to mechanical properties exhibited by many engineering materials. These biological systems have accomplished this feat by establishing controlled synthesis and hierarchical assembly of nano- to micro-scaled building blocks that are integrated into macroscale structures, while also producing materials with multi-functionality in order to provide organisms with a unique ecological advantage to ensure survival.
We investigate organisms that have taken advantage of millions of years of evolutionary changes to derive structures, which are not only strong and tough, but also demonstrate the ability to articulate as well as display multifunctional features dependent on the underlying organic-inorganic components, which are often expressed at critical junctions. We discuss the mechanical properties and functionality stemming from these interfaces, how they are formed and how they avoid catastrophic damage. |