Biomechanics, Biomimetics and Bionics
Fruit of Proboscidea fragrans - a model for enhanced composite materials?
In the course of evolution plants adapted to various environmental conditions. In the field of Biomimetics (also: Bionics), scientists analyze the principles underlying these adaptations. The findings are used to solve technical problems. Examples for new inventions based on biomimetic studies are self-cleaning surfaces following the example of the Lotus plant or Velcro fasteners.
The diversity of scientific collections provides the basis for these studies. Scientists at the Institute of Botany at TU Dresden cooperated with different departments to analyze e. g. the fruits of Martyniaceae, phloem fibers of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) or cactus ramifications. The aim of these studies was to develop new concepts for lightweight constructions and composite materials.
Research in this area is supplemented by the analysis of different plant fibers. As part of biocomposite materials, plant fibers could contribute to environmental protection: They are biodegradable and CO2-neutral. In this framework, almost forgotten fiber plants from Angola are tested for their potential use in composite materials.