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Biomimetics, or biomimicry, is the study of nature to inspire better designs, processes and materials. For instance the designs of early flying machines were inspired by the flight of birds. In materials, biomimetics is often used to assist us in improving fracture resistance by manipulating the structure of the material. This assignment requires you to discuss recent research literature related to the use
of biomimetics in developing fracture-resistant materials.
Identify an example of a biological organism or process that has been used to create fracture resistant materials. Locate a relevant journal article (or articles) and describe the following:
- The key structural feature(s) of the biological organism that are mimicked.
- The mechanism of how the biomimetic concept improves the fracture-resistance of the material.
- The manufacturing process used to make the material, or incorporate the biomimetic features into the material
- The test/s used in the research to show the improved fracture-resistance, including the specific material mechanical properties measured.
- Your thoughts on how significant an improvement was made in the material's fracture properties
- Potential applications of the newly developed biomimetic material