Biomaterials and Natural

Mechanisms:
Module 3
Contents
• Echolocation (ultrasonography, sonars),
• Flight in Nature
• Mechanism of flight
• GPS and aircraft
• High speed movement
• Peregrine Falcon
• Woodpeckers
• Planes, trains
• Lotus leaf effect
• Super hydrophobic
• self-cleaning surfaces
• Plant burrs
• Velcro,
• Shark Scales
• Friction reducing swimsuits,
• Human Blood substitutes -
• hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs)
• perflourocarbons (PFCs)
Echolocation
• Echolocation, a physiological process for locating
distant or invisible objects (such as prey) by means of
sound waves reflected back to the emitter (such as a
bat) by the objects.
• Echolocation is used for orientation, obstacle
avoidance, food procurement, and social interactions.
• Echolocation is known to be employed by most bats
(all members of the suborder Microchiroptera and
one genus, Rousettus, of the Megachiroptera).
• Most, if not all, toothed whales and porpoises
(Odontoceti), but apparently no baleen whales; a few
shrews; and two kinds of birds, the oilbird (Steatornis
caripensis) of northern South America and certain
cave swiftlets (Collocalia) of Southeast Asia.
Biological Echolocation Technological Echolocation
• Found in various animals such as bats, • Replicates the concept of biological
dolphins and some species of whales. echolocation using technological devices.
• Relies on the emission of sound waves, usually • Utilizes sound waves, typically generated by
in the form of clicks or vocalizations. artificial sources such as sonar or ultrasonic
• Animals emit sound wave, and ten for the sensors.
echoes produced when the sound waves • These devices emit sound waves and analyze the
bounce off objects in their environment. echoes that bounce back from objects.
• By analyze in the echoes, animals can • The information from the echoes is processed
determine the location, distance, and even the and interpreted by the technology to generate
shape of objects around them useful data, such as distance, location, and object
• This ability is mainly use for navigation, recognition.
hunting, and communication in the animal • Technological echolocation has applications in
kingdom. various fields, including navigation, robotics,
• Biological echolocation is a natural adaptation obstacle detection, and medical imaging.
that has evolved over millions of years. • It is a human-engineered solution inspired by
the natural abilities of animals
Ultrasonography
• Ultrasonography is a medical imaging technique
that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce
images of the internal organs and tissues of the
body.
• It is also known as ultrasound imaging or
sonography.
• The ultrasound machine emits high-frequency
sound waves (usually in the range of 2 to 18 MHz)
that 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.
Ultrasonography
• Ultrasonography is a non-invasive, safe, and
painless imaging method that can be used to
visualize a wide range of structures within the
body, including the organs of the abdomen, pelvis,
and chest, as well as the uterus, fetus, and other
soft tissues.
• It is commonly used in prenatal care to monitor
the growth and development of the fetus and to
diagnose any potential problems.
• Ultrasonography has several advantages over other
imaging methods, including its low cost, ease of
use, and lack of ionizing radiation.
• It is also portable and can be used in a variety of
settings, making it a valuable tool for medical
professionals.
Uses of Ultrasonography
Most coalition uses of Ultrasonography include:
• Obstetrics and gynecology: Ultrasonography is commonly used to Monitor the growth and
development of a fetus during pregnancy, as well as to evaluate the reproductive organs and female
pelvic organs for conditions such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, and endometrial cancer.
• Abdominal imaging: Ultrasonography is used to image the organs of the abdomen, such as the
liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. to diagnose conditions such as liver disease,
gallstones, pancreatitis, and kidney stones.
• 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 the muscles, tenders and ligaments to
diagnose condition such as blood clots, blockages, and aneurysms.
• Eye and neck imaging: Ultrasonography is used to image the eyes and neck to diagnose
condition such as cataracts, glaucoma and thyroid nodules.
 Advantages of Ultrasonography
• Non-invasive: Ultrasonography does not involve any incisions or injections, making it a safe
and convenient imaging method.
• No ionizing radiation: Ultrasonography does not use ionizing radiation making it a safer
option for patients, especially pregnant women and children.
• Real-time imaging: Ultrasonography provides real-time images, it can be used to monitor
the movement and function of internal organs in real time.
• Portable: Ultrasonography machines are portable an making it a valuable tool for emergency
• Cost-effective: Less expensive compared to other methods like MRI or CT scans.
• Versatile: Ultrasonography can be used to image a wide range of structures within the body,
including the organs of the abdomen pelvis, and chest, as well as the uterus, fetus, and other
soft tissues.
• Ability to capture soft tissues, (no shown in X-rays)
Limitation of Ultrasonography
• Limited depth: Ultrasonography has limited depth and is not as effective at imaging deep
structure or those obscured by bones or gas.
• Operator dependence: The Quality of the images produced by ultrasonography depends
heavily on the skills and experience of the operator.
• Limited Resolution: Ultrasonography has limited resolution compared to other imaging
methods making it less effective at visualizing small structures or detecting small changes
in tissue.
• Limitation in detecting some types of cancer: Ultrasonography may not be as effective
at detecting certain types of cancer, such as pancreatic cancer, due to lack of characteristic
signs on ultrasound images.
 Sonars
• Sonar, which is short for “Sound Navigation and Ranging” is used to help both explore
and map the ocean.
• It is a technology that uses sound waves to detect and locate underwater objects
• Sonar is an approach which is used to find the depth of a sea or to locate the under-water
things like fish, enemy submarines etc.,.

Operating principle:
Sonar technology works by emitting a series of sound
pulses and listening for the echoes that bounce back
from underwater objects. The time it takes for the
echoes to return is used to calculate the distance to the
objects, and the frequency and pattern of the echoes
are used to determine their size and shape.
 Uses of Sonar
• Underwater communications, where ships and submarines use special sonars.
• Military tracking of enemy warships and submarines.
• Monitoring pipelines that transport oil and gas to detect potential damage.
• Measuring the depth or detecting objects in the sea bed in ships and other
water transports.
• Naval applications: Sonars are used by naval vessels to detect and locate other ships,
submarines, and underwater obstacles, allowing them to navigate safely and avoid potential
collisions
• Fishery: Sonars are used in the fishing Industry to locate schools of fish and determine the
depth of the water, allowing fishermen to more efficiently target their catch.
• Oceanography: Sonars are used in oceanography to study the physical and biological
properties of the ocean, including the structure of the ocean floor, the movement of
currents, and the distribution of marine life.
• Environmental monitoring: Sonars are used to monitor the health of marine ecosystems,
track the migration patterns of whales and other marine mammals, and assess the impact of
human activities on the ocean environment.
Advantages of Sonar Technology
• Versatility: Sonar technology is versatile and can he used in a variety of
applications, such as underwater navigation, mapping, and imaging, as well as for
military and scientific purposes.
• Cost-effective: Compared to other underwater imaging technologies, sonar is
relatively cost-effective and affordable.
• Non-invasive: Unlike other imaging technologies, such as diving and remote-
operated vehicles, sonar does not physically disturb the underwater environment,
making it an ideal choice for environmental monitoring and scientific research.
• Real-time imaging: Sonar provides real-time imaging allowing operators to
quickly and easily assess the underwater environment.
• High Resolution: Modern sonar systems have high-resolution capabilities,
allowing for detailed images of underwater objects and structures.
Limitation of Sonar Technology
• Limited visibility: Sonar imaging is limited by the visibility of the water which can be affected by factors
such as sediment, algae, and water temperature. This can make it difficult to obtain clear and accurate
images.
• Interference: Sonar signals can be affected by interference from other underwater sources, such as ships,
submarines, and natural underwater features, which can lead to false readings and reduced accuracy.
• Short range: Sonar signals have a limited range, which can make it difficult to image larger underwater
structures or objects that are located far away from the sonar system.
• Limited depth: The depth to which sonar can effectively penetrate is limited, making it unsuitable for
imaging objects or structures that are located at great depths.
• Acoustic noise: The use of sonar technology can also generate acoustic noise, which can disturb marine
life and harm marine ecosystems. This is particularly a concern for high-power, military-grade sonar
systems, which have the potential to cause serious harm to marine life.
• Complex technology: Sonar technology can be complex, requiring specialized skills and equipment to
operate and maintain. This can limit its accessibility and increase the cost of implementation
• Inaccurate readings: Sonar readings can be inaccurate due to factors such as reflection, refraction, and
absorption of sound waves, which can result correct measurements and false readings.
 Flight in Nature
• Birds fly by flapping their wings and using their body weight and the movement of the air to stay aloft.
• They navigate using combination of visual cues, the Earth's magnetic field, and celestial navigation.

• Aircraft, on the other hand, use engines to generate thrust and lift from the wings to stay in the air navigate
using a combination of instruments and systems, including GPS (Global Positioning System), which uses
satellite signals to determine the aircraft's position and help it navigate.
• Although birds and aircraft both fly, their mechanisms and methods of navigation are quite different Birds
flying influenced the invention of aircraft in that early aviation pioneers, such as the Wright brothers, observed
and studied the flight of birds to develop their flying machines.

• They noted how birds used their wings and body to achieve lift and control their flight, and used this knowledge
to design and improve aircraft.
• The development of GPS technology was not directly
influenced by birds, but rather by the need for accurate
and reliable navigation systems for various purposes,
including aviation.
• GPS uses a network of satellites to provide
location and time information, which is used by
aircraft for navigation, communication, and safety
purposes.

• The science behind the bird’s flies using its wings and holding their body weight in air.
• The ability of birds to fly and support their body weight in the air is a result of various
anatomical and physiological adaptations.
• Wing Shape: Birds have specialized wings with a unique shape that generates lift. The wings are curved on
the upper surface and flatter on the bottom, creating a pressure difference known as Bernoulli's principle.
This pressure difference generates lift, allowing birds to stay airborne.

• Wing Muscles: Birds have strong flight muscles attached to their wings, allowing them to flap their wings
vigorously. The upstroke and downstroke motion of the wings generates thrust, propelling the bird forward
through the air.

• Hollow Bones: Birds have lightweight bones that are hollow and filled with air sacs, reducing their overall
weight. This makes it easier for them to stay aloft.

• Feathers: Feathers play a crucial role in flight. They provide both lift and control. The primary feathers at
the tips of the wings help generate lift, while the tail feathers assist in maneuvering and stabilizing during
flight.
• Respiratory System: Birds have a unique respiratory system that allows for efficient oxygen exchange. Air
flows unidirectionally through their lungs, as well as through a system of air sacs located throughout their
body. This constant supply of oxygen fuels -their high metabolic demands during flight.

• Efficient Circulatory System: Birds have a highly efficient circulatory system that delivers oxygen-rich
blood to their muscles and organs. Their heart rate increases during flight, ensuring a steady supply of
oxygen to meet the demands of their active muscles.

• Flight Control: Birds have remarkable coordination and control over their flight. They can adjust the angle
and shape of their wings, control their speed and direction, and perform intricate aerial maneuvers using
their tail, wings, and body movements.

It's important to note that bird flight is a complex process influenced by several factors, including
aerodynamics, muscle strength, metabolic efficiency, and specialized adaptations. The science behind bird
flight continues to be an area of study and fascination for researchers and aviation engineers alike.
Importance of GPS Technology in Aircrafts
GPS technology is essential for aircraft navigation and guidance. Here's how it is used:
• Positioning and Navigation: GPS helps aircraft accurately determine their position and follow precise routes.
Signals from satellites are received by GPS receivers onboard, allowing the system to calculate the aircraft's
position.
• Flight Planning: GPS assists pilots and planners in creating optimal flight plans, considering waypoints,
altitudes, and current information on navigation aids, weather, and airspace restrictions.
• Approach and Landing: GPS-based navigation
systems provide precise guidance during approach
and landing, even in low visibility. This enhances
safety and reduces reliance on ground-based
navigation aids.
• Air Traffic Management: GPS is integrated into
air traffic management systems, improving airspace
efficiency, reducing congestion, optimizing routing,
and enhancing aircraft tracking and situational
awareness for controllers.
• Collision Avoidance: GPS contributes to collision avoidance systems like TCAS and ADS-B. These
systems use GPS data to track nearby aircraft, provide alerts, and ensure safe separation.
• Flight Data Recording: GPS data is often recorded by flight data recording systems, aiding post-flight
analysis, accident investigation, and overall flight safety improvements.
• GPS technology has revolutionized aircraft navigation and has become an integral part of modem aviation.
• It provides accurate positioning, enhances safety, improves operational efficiency, and contributes to the
overall advancement of the aviation industry.
• TCAS: Traffic Collision Avoidance
System.
• Independent system that operates without
relying on ground-based air traffic control
(ATC).
• ADS-B: Automatic Dependent
Surveillance-Broadcast.
• Broadcast the dentification, position,
altitude, velocity, and other data to ground
stations.
• ADS-B serves ground-to-air and
air-to-air surveillance purposes,
while TCAS is solely utilized for air-to-
air collision avoidance.
Bio-Mimicking Birds Fly for Aircraft Technology
• Wing design: The shape of bird wings has
inspired the design of aircraft wings, which have
evolved to be more aerodynamic and fuel-efficient
as a result. The study of bird flight has also led to
the development of winglets, small structures at
the tip of wings that reduce drag and increase lift.
• Flapping-Wing Drones: Researches have
developed drones that use flapping wings to fly,
mimicking the way birds and insects fly. These
drones can be used for various application, such as
monitoring crops and wildlife, inspecting building
and infrastructure, and search and rescue
operations.
• Soaring algorithms: Soaring refers to the flight technique used by birds and certain
aircraft to stay aloft and travel long distances with minimal energy expenditure.
• It involves utilizing rising air currents, such as thermals, ridge lift, wind shear, or atmospheric
waves, to gain altitude and maintain flight. Birds use thermals, or columns of rising warm air, to
gain altitude and soar.

• Researchers have developed algorithms inspired by bird flight to help gliders and other aircraft use
thermals more efficiently, leading to longer and more sustainable flights.

• Landing gear: The legs and feet of birds have inspired the design of landing gear for
aircraft, with shock-absorbing and retractable structures that help absorb impact upon
landing
 High speed movement (Peregrine Falcon)
The Peregrine Falcon and the B-2 Spirit Bomber represent an interesting
connection between nature and advanced aviation technology. Here’s how
they are related:

Aerodynamic Efficiency: The Peregrine Falcon is known for its exceptional

aerodynamic capabilities, particularly during high-speed dives.
• Engineers studying the falcon’s flight patterns and wing shapes have
applied these principles to improve the aerodynamic efficiency of aircraft,
including bombers like the B-2.

Stealth and Maneuverability: Falcons, with their ability to hunt with

precision and speed, showcase remarkable agility in the air. The B-2 Spirit
Bomber, designed for stealth missions, incorporates advanced aerodynamics
to reduce radar cross-section and enhance maneuverability, drawing
inspiration from nature’s efficiency in flight.

Wing Design: While the B-2’s flying wing design is not a direct copy of the
falcon’s wings, the principles of sleek, streamlined wings that minimize drag
and improve speed can be traced back to observations of birds of prey like the
peregrine falcon.
 High speed movement (Peregrine Falcon)
Adaptability to Flight Conditions: Falcons are known for adjusting
their wings to adapt to different flight conditions. Similarly, the B-2 is
designed to be adaptable, with features like variable geometry wings
that can adjust their configuration based on the needs of different
flight phases.

Silent Flight: Peregrine falcons are skilled in flying

silently to avoid alerting their prey. While the B-2 bomber
is not silent, its design incorporates features to reduce its
radar signature, allowing it to operate with a higher level
of stealth.
The principles of aerodynamics and efficiency observed in
nature, including the flight patterns of birds of prey, have
influenced the design and capabilities of advanced aircraft
like the B-2. The study of nature continues to inspire
innovations in aviation technology.
 Woodpeckers and shock absorbers
• It’s a remarkable sight: woodpeckers hammering
away at a tree (or your house) without breaking a
sweat. In fact, they hammer at a rate of 100 times
the g-force that would cause a concussion in a
contact sport like football.
• How can they hammer with this high force of
impact with no damage to their beak or head?
• The answer lies in a combination of spongy
bones and a tough beak.
• Their hard but elastic beak and spongy skull
bones create the perfect shock-absorbing effect
that protects them from harm.
• The combination is so effective that researchers
have patterned shock-absorbing technology after
it.
• This tech is used everywhere from airplanes and
cars to you guessed it football helmets.
Kingfishers and bullet trains
Ever seen a Kingfisher dive gracefully into water in search of food—and without making a splash? That’s due to the
streamlined design of its long, pointed beak.
These expert divers have not gone unnoticed—in fact, they’ve inspired the design of one of the fastest trains in the
world.
Engineers of Japan’s 500 series Shinkansen train designed its nose after the Kingfisher’s wedge-shaped beak.

This allowed it to slice through the

air at a faster rate—a top speed of
186 mph, to be exact.
The nose design also reduced energy
consumption due to less air
resistance, and reduced sonic boom
noise in tunnels, resulting in a faster,
quieter, more cost-effective train
requiring less gas and fuel.
 Migrating birds and planes
• Airplanes, of course, are one of the most obvious examples of
biomimicry and birds.
• A bird’s shape, the way it uses its wings to produce lift, how it
glides through the air all of these details were meticulously
studied and reproduced in the modern airplane.
• Scientists and researchers have also studied the “V” formation
of flying geese, which helps them save energy by catching the
updraft of the bird in front of them, and applied it to military
squadron formations.
• The latest iteration of this idea? Passenger jets. Aircraft
manufacturer Airbus UpNext’s flight demonstration project is
testing out flying commercial jets in a formation akin to
migrating birds, with the same energy savings as their goal.
Hummingbirds and drones
• It’s not hard to see the similarity between a flitting
hummingbird and a hovering drone.
• That’s because the hummingbird with its ability to quickly
dart in any direction and hover over a colorful flower to
drink it’s nectar is the muse for this relatively new
technology.
• Scientists studied hummingbirds and their high wing-beat
frequency made possible by their long chest bone, strong
wing muscles, and figure-eight wing beat patterns.
• They’ve used this unique combination to design drones
with the same precise and quick maneuvering ability.
 Lotus leaf effect
• The lotus leaf effect, also known as the "lotus effect,"
refers to the ability of lotus leaves to repel water and
self-clean through their unique surface structure.
• Has inspired the development of super
hydrophobic and self-cleaning surfaces, which
have a wide range of applications in various
industries.
• The lotus leaf surface has a microscale and nano scale
structure that consists of numerous small bumps and
wax-coated hairs.
• This structure creates a high contact angle between
the water droplets and the surface, causing the
droplets to roll off and carry away dirt or debris.
• This self-cleaning property is due to the lotus leaf’s
ability to repel water and resist adhesion.
 Lotus leaf effect
• Application: aerospace, automotive,
building materials, and medical devices.

• Examples: self-cleaning coatings can be

used on the exterior of buildings to reduce
the need for cleaning and maintenance.

• Super hydrophobic coatings can be used to

prevent icing on aircraft wings.
 Super Hydrophobic Effect
• The super hydrophobicity was first observed
in nature on lotus leaf and some other plant
leaves that would not get wet.
• If an electron microscopy image of a lotus
leaf is taken, you would see that the surface of
the lotus leaf is pretty rough.

• In addition, to that roughness, the surface of the

leaf is covered with a wax-like material.
• Together, those two properties make the surface
superhydrophobic, non-wetting chemistry and
micro- and/or nanostructured topography( surface
roughness)
Super Hydrophobic Effect
• The non-wetting chemistry typically comes from
fluoropolymer coatings.
• Most typical fluoropolymer, Teflon, has the highest
contact angle for smooth surface which is around
120 °.
• It is then clear that the surface chemistry alone is
not enough to make surface superhydrophobic, but
roughness is also required.
• The roughness requirement makes the surfaces
often non-durable which is the biggest challenge in
terms of their usage in different applications.
 The Principle of Super hydrophobic Surfaces
• Hydrophobic coatings mainly relate
to the wettability of coatings, usually
characterized by the hydrophobic
angle of liquid on the solid contact
plane.
• Solid surface wetting is one of the
most important properties of solid
surfaces
• Hydrophobic coating is measured by adding a drop of water over the concerned surface and
measuring the contact Angle, which will provide a rating of the substance's hydrophobicity.
• A contact angle that give hydrophobicity properties it's in range of an angle between 90o-
150o in which equal or higher than 90o and equal or lower than 150o.
• Coated surfaces that show a contact angle more than 150o known as a superhydrophobic
coating
 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, typically over 150 degrees, meaning that the droplets roll off the
surface with ease.
Techniques used to prepare super hydrophobic surfaces
• Dip Coating Method: In this approach, a substrate is dipped into a solution containing hydrophobic materials,
which then adhere to the surface, creating a superhydrophobic coating.
• Spraying Method: Similar to dip coating, this method involves spraying a hydrophobic solution onto the
substrate. The resulting coating exhibits water-repellent properties.
• Template Method: Using templates or molds, researchers can create surface structures that mimic natural
superhydrophobic features. For instance, micro- or nano-scale bumps can be replicated on a material’s surface.
• Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): CVD allows the controlled growth of thin films on a substrate. By
depositing hydrophobic materials using CVD, superhydrophobic surfaces can be fabricated.
• Etching Method: Surface etching introduces roughness, enhancing hydrophobicity. Chemical or laser etching can
create intricate patterns on the material’s surface, leading to superhydrophobic behavior.
• Electrostatic Spinning Method: In this technique, polymer fibers are electro spun onto the substrate, creating a
rough surface with water-repellent properties.
• Phase Separation Method: By inducing phase separation in a polymer solution, researchers can create
hierarchical structures that contribute to super hydrophobicity.
• Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly: Alternating layers of hydrophobic and hydrophilic materials are deposited on
the substrate, resulting in a superhydrophobic surface.
• Sol-Gel Method: The sol-gel process involves the synthesis of inorganic materials from a solution (sol) that
undergoes a gelation process to form a solid network. By controlling the composition and structure of the sol-gel
materials, super hydrophobic coatings can be created on various substrates.

• Electrochemical Methods: Electrochemical techniques like anodization and electroplating can be employed to
create super hydrophobic surfaces. Anodization involves the controlled oxidation of metals, such as aluminum, to
form a porous oxide layer with a rough surface. Electroplating can be used to deposit metals or alloys with desired
surface properties.

• Plasma Treatment: Plasma treatment involves exposing the material surface to low-pressure plasma, which can
modify the surface chemistry and morphology. Plasma etchnig, deposition, or functionalization techniques can be
used to create superhydrophobic surfaces with specific characteristics.

• Micro/Nanostructuring Techniques: Various fabrication methods can be used to create micro- and nanostructures
on surfaces, which contribute to super hydrophobicity.
 Engineering Applications of Super Hydrophobic Surfaces
Electronics Industry:
• Waterproofing Electronics: Super hydrophobic coatings can protect electronic components from water
damage. By applying super hydrophobic coatings on circuit boards, connectors, and other sensitive
electronic parts, water ingress can be minimized, improving the reliability and durability of electronic
devices.
• Moisture Resistance: Electronic devices exposed to humid environments or moisture-prone conditions
benefait from super hydrophobic coatings. These coatings prevent moisture from reaching heal electronic
components, reducing the risk of short circuits, corrosion io malfunction.
• Self-Cleaning Displays: Super hydrophobic coatings applied to
displays and touch screens repel water, oils, and fingerprints, making
them easier to clean and maintain. This improves the visibility and
functionality of electronic displays, especially in outdoor or light-
touch application.
Automobile Industry
• Anti-Fogging Windows and Minors: Super hydrophobic coatings can be used on automobile windows and
mirrors to prevent fogging or condensation formation. The water-repellent property helps maintain clear
visibility, enhancing driver safety and comfort in humid or cold weather conditions.
• Self-Cleaning Surfaces: Applying super hydrophobic coatings to the exterior surfaces of vehicles can facilitate
self-cleaning by repelling water, dirt, and contaminants. This reduces the need for frequent washing and
maintenance, keeping the vehicle cleaner and improving its appearance.

• Fuel Efficiency: Super hydrophobic coatings can reduce drag

and frictional resistance on vehicle surfaces, leading to improved
aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. By minimizing water adhesion,
the coatings help reduce the accumulation of water droplets on
the vehicle's exterior, decreasing drag and optimizing
performance.
Aerospace Industry:
• Anti-Icing and Deicing: Super hydrophobic coatings applied to aircraft surfaces can prevent ice
formation or facilitate ice removal. This is particularly important for critical areas such as wings, engine
components, and sensors, helping to ensure safe operations and reducing the risk of ice-related incidents.
• Drag Reduction: Super hydrophobic coatings on aircraft surfaces can minimize frictional drag during
flight, leading to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The water-repellent property helps
maintain a smooth airflow o ver the surface, optimizing aerodynamic performance.
• Corrosion Resistance: Super hydrophobic coatings can protect aerospace components from corrosion
caused by exposure to moisture, rain, or harsh environments by repelling water and reducing surface
contact with corrosive agents these coating help preserve the structural integrity and lifespan of aerospace
equipment.
Self-Cleaning Surfaces
• Self-cleaning surfaces are surfaces that are able to clean themselves without the need for manual cleaning.
These surfaces are typically super hydrophobic and have a high contact angle with water, which causes water
droplets to bead up and roll off the surface, carrying away any dirt or debris
 Plants Burs and Velcro
• Plant burrs, such as those found on burdock,
inspired the invention of Velcro, a popular hook-
and-loop fastening system.
• The Burrs have small hooks that can latch onto
clothing, fur, or feathers, allowing them to disperse
their seeds over a wider area.
• In 1941, a man named George de Mestral took off George de Mestral
on a hike with his dog near his home in (June 19, 1907 – February 8, 1990)
Switzerland.
• De Mestral would have enjoyed his hike, were it
not for the pesky burdock burrs (seeds) that
attached themselves to his clothing and his dog’s
fur as they walked through the brush.
Plant burr
 Plants Burs and Velcro

• A scientist at heart, de Mestral decided to examine the

burdock seeds stuck in dog’s fur under a microscope when
he returned home.
• He marveled at the ability of the burrs to attach themselves
to the dog’s fur and wondered if the properties of the burrs
George de Mestral
could prove useful for human use (not to mention lucrative). (June 19, 1907 – February 8, 1990)
• Fast forward 14 years later to 1955, and after rigorous
experimentation, de Mestral had patented a new invention
by the name Velcro.
• Velcro, which consists of two strips of nylon fabric,
one with tiny hooks and the other with small loops.
• When pressed together, the hooks latch onto the loops,
creating a strong bond that can be easily detached by
pulling the two strips apart.
• Velcro has a wide range of applications, including in
clothing, shoes, bags, and medical devices. It has
become a popular alternative to traditional fasteners,
such as buttons and zippers, due to its ease of use and
versatility.
• The name "Velcro" is actually a combination of the
word’s "velvet" and "crochet," as the fabric strips
resemble velvet and are hooked together like crochet.
Velcro has since become a popular alternative to
traditional fasteners, such as buttons and zippers, due
to its ease of use and versatility
• Velcro Technology uses two main materials: nylon
and Polyester
• 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.
• When the loops are pressed against the hook side of the
Velcro,
• The Hooks latch onto the loops, Creating a secure
attachment.

• In addition to nylon and polyester, the adhesive used to

attach the Velcro to Surfaces can also vary.
• Some types of types of Velcro use a pressure-sensitive
adhesive that can be easily removed without leaving a
residue, while others use a stronger adhesive that creates
a more permanent bond.
Engineering Applications of Velcro Technology
• Medical devices:Velcro is used in medical devices such as braces, splints, and compression
garments for its adjustable and secure fastening capabilities.
• Aerospace equipment:Velcro is used in aerospace equipment, such as satellites any air
spacecraft, to secure components in place and prevent them from vibrating or shifting during
launch or flight.
• 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 reasonable closure on bags,
pouches, and other types of packaging.
• Sports equipment: Velcro is used in sports equipment’s such as helmets and gloves, for its
ability to provide a secure and adjustable.
Shark Scales (Friction Reducing Swim Suits)
• The denticles on shark skin have evolved over millions of years to reduce drag and
increase swimming efficiency. These structures disrupt the flow of water around the
shark's body, reducing turbulence and minimizing the formation of vortices. As a
result, sharks can swim faster and with less effort compared to other fish.
• Denticles on shark skin are like
tiny bumps or ridges. They
disrupt the flow of water around
the shark's body, making it
smoother and reducing
turbulence. This disruption
reduces the resistance the shark
experiences as it swims, allowing
it to move faster and with less
effort.
Turbulence in Water Reducing Drag
• Turbulence is when a fluid, like water • When a shark swims through the water, the
or air, becomes chaotic and water normally flows smoothly over its body.
unpredictable. • However, the denticles on the shark's skin
• Instead of flowing smoothly, it swirls disrupt this smooth flow. They create small
and forms irregular patterns. disturbances in the water, which helps to
• This turbulence creates resistance or break up turbulent currents that can slow the
drag, which makes it harder for things shark down.
to move through the fluid. • By reducing turbulence, the denticles make
• In swimming, reducing turbulence is the flow of water around the shark's body
important because it helps to minimize smoother.
resistance, swimmers to move more • This smoother flow reduces the resistance or
easily and efficiently through the drags the shark experiences as it moves
water. through the water, allowing it to swim more
efficiently
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 suit use a similar
structure to that of shark skin to reduce
drag and improve swimmer performance
these suits are made from high-tech
materials that mimic the properties of shark
skin, such as the shape and size of the
denticles.
Materials Used for Friction-Reducing Swim Suits
The materials used to friction-reducing swim suits inspired by shark skin include:
• Polyurethane- A type of material that is commonly used in the production of swim
suits, as it is durable and can be molded to a variety of shapes.
• Lycra/ Spandex: Lycra and spandex are made from the same synthetic fiber, which
is technically called elastane. Elastane fibers are typically composed of a polymer
called polyurethane which is then blended with other fibers like nylon, polyester, or
cotton) that is known for its stretch and flexibility.
• High-tech fabrics: A range of high-tech fabrics have been developed specifically for
use in swim suits. These fabrics are designed to be lightweight, water-repellent, and
hydrodynamic, and often incorporate materials such as silicone or Teflon to reduce
drag.
Human Blood substitute(Artificial Blood) -
Hemoglobin-Based Oxygen carriers (HBOCs)
• Human blood substitutes are synthetic products that are designed to act as a replacement for blood in the
human body.
Effective Oxygen Transport:
• Human blood substitutes must be capable of efficiently carrying and delivering oxygen to the body's
tissues.
• This is a fundamental function of natural blood that any substitute should be able to replicate or improve
upon.
Safety and Compatibility:
• Blood substitutes should be safe for use in the
human body and well-tolerated by the recipient.
They should not cause significant adverse reactions,
toxicity, or immune responses.
• Additionally, they should not interfere with normal
blood clotting or other essential physiological
processes
Storage and Transport:
• Human blood substitutes should be stable and capable of
being stored andtransported easily. This is particularly
important in emergency situations or areaswhere access
to blood products may be limited. The ability to store and
transportsubstitutes effectively ensures their availability
when needed.

Cost-Effectiveness and Scalability:

• Blood substitutes should be cost-effective and sealable for
widespread use in medical settings. They should be
affordable and feasible to produce in large quantities,
meeting the potential demand for blood products.
 How HBOCs are made?
• HBOCs can be derived from human red
blood cells.
• Derived haemoglobin → Subjected to
purification
• Types
• Chemical methods
• Cross-linking: Linking
haemoglobin subunits using
chemical reagents like Conjugation: Attaching polymers like
glutaraldehyde. polyethylene glycol to the haemoglobin
• Polymerization: Joining surface to improve stability and alter
multiple hemoglobin molecules oxygen binding properties.
together to form larger
polymers.
 How HBOCs are made?
• Encapsulation methods
• Encapsulating haemoglobin
molecules within vesicles or
microparticles.
 Advantages of hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers
Hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs) have several potential advantages:
• Storage at Room Temperature: HBOCs can be stored at room temperature with prolonged
shelf-life, unlike red blood cells that require refrigeration.
• No Disease Transmission: Since HBOCs are synthetic, there is no risk of disease
transmission, which can occur with blood transfusions.
• Universal Compatibility: HBOCs do not require blood typing, making them universally
compatible for patients.
• No Antigenic Reactions: Unlike some blood transfusions, HBOCs do not trigger immune
reactions.
• Enhanced Oxygen Delivery: HBOCs can potentially improve oxygen delivery to tissues.
• Abundant Supply: They offer a potential abundant supply, especially in emergency situations.
• Improved Rheologic Properties: HBOCs may have better rheologic properties compared to
red blood cells.
• Increased oxygen-carrying capacity: HBOCs can potentially carry more oxygen per unit
volume than whole blood. This can be advantageous in situations where there is a need for rapid
oxygen delivery or when there is limited availability of blood for transfusion.
• Universal compatibility:Unlike blood transfusions, which require blood typing and cross-
matching to ensure compatibility, HBOCs can potentially be universally compatible with any
blood type. This can be particularly useful in emergency situations or in areas where blood
matching facilities are limited.
• Longer shelf life: HBOCs have the potential for longer storage and shelf life compared to
donated blood, which has a limited lifespan. This can improv availability of oxygen-carrying
substitutes in critical situations and reduce the need for frequently it blood donations.
• Reduced risk of infections: Blood transfusions carry a small risk of transmitting infection,
such as viruses or bacteria, from the donor to the recipient since HBOC’s are synthetic and do
not rely on human donors, the risk of infections associated with transaction can be significantly
reduced.
• Availability in Remove or Challenging settings:In remote or underdeveloped area where
access to safe blood transaction may be limited HBO’s can potentially provide a viable alternative
for oxygen delivery. This can be particularly beneficial in military setting disaster relief efforts, or
during transport of patients where immediate access to blood is not feasible
Limitations/Risks of using HBOCs
• Toxicity: Cell-free Hb (not contained within RBC) tends to be toxic in the blood.
• It can cause high blood pressure and may escape blood vessels, damaging organs like the kidneys.
• Oxidation: Unlike Hb inside RBCs, free Hb molecules in HBOCs undergo irreversible oxidation after
releasing oxygen.
• This oxidation renders the protein unable to bind additional oxygen molecules.
• Clinical Side Effects: HBOC-related side effects range from mild transient liver enzyme elevations to
severe manifestations like myocardial infarction and stroke, contributing to HBOC-related mortality and
morbidity in patients.
• Limited oxygen release: One of the challenges with HBOCs is ensuring efficient oxygen release to the
tissues.
• The oxygen dissociation curve of HBOCs may differ from that of natural red blood cells, potentially
leading to inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues in certain conditions.
• Short half-life: HBOCs tend to have a shorter half-life in the body compared to natural red blood cells.
• This means that the HBOCs may be rapidly cleared from circulation, reducing their effectiveness and
requiring more frequent doses or infusions.
• Nitric oxide scavenging: HBOCs have a tendency to scavenge nitric oxide, a molecule important for
regulating blood vessel dilation and maintaining normal blood flow. Excessive nitric oxide scavenging by
HBOCs can lead to vasoconstriction, impairing blood flow to vital organs and potentially causing adverse
cardiovascular effects.
• Renal toxicity: Some HBOCs have shown a potential for renal toxicity, causing damage to the kidneys.
• Immunogenicity and adverse reactions: HBOCs can trigger immune responses in the body, potentially
adding to allergic reactions or other adverse events. Immunogenicity can vary between different HBOC
products and individuals, and careful monitoring is necessary to identify and manage any potential adverse
reactions.
• Regulatory challenges: HBOCs are subject to rigorous regulatory scrutiny due to their potential risks and
complex nature. Obtaining regulatory approval for HBOC s can be a lengthy and costly process, and several
HBOC products have faced setbacks in their development due to safety concerns.
• Interference with diagnostic tests: HBOCs can interfere with certain laboratory tests. such as those
measuring bilirubin or liver enzymes. This interference can complicate the interpretation of results and
potentially lead to diagnostic errors.
Perflourocarbons (PFCs)
• Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) are man-made
compounds containing just fluorine and carbon.
• They are generally colourless, odourless non-
flammable gases at environmental temperatures
and for the most part chemically unreactive.
• Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) are a type of human
blood substitute that are designed to deliver oxygen
to the body's tissues.
• Unlike hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers (HBOCs),
which are based on natural proteins, PFCs are
synthetic chemicals that are similar in structure to
some types of industrial solvents.
 Advantages of PFC’s
• High Oxygen-carrying capacity: PFC’s have the ability to dissolve a significant amount of oxygen much
higher than that of blood. This allows for efficient oxygen delivery to tissues, even in low-oxygen environments.
• Improved oxygen solubility:PFC’s Exhibit a high solubility for oxygen, meaning that oxygen molecules can
readily dissolve in PFC solutions. This enables PFC’s to transport and deliver oxygen more effectively than other
alternatives.
• Stability and long shelf life:PFC’s are chemically stable and have a long shelf life, making them suitable for
storage and use in emergency situation where the availability of fresh blood or other oxygen more effectively
than other alternatives
• No blood typing or cross-matching required: Unlike blood transactions which require compatibility testing
and matching of blood types, PFC’s are not dependent on blood typing this makes them potentially universal
oxygen carries, suitable for use in individuals of any blood type.
• Reduced risk of infection transmission: PFC’s are synthetic substances, eliminating the risk of transmitting
infectious disease associated with blood transactions. This advantage can be particularly significant in situations
where the availability of safe blood products is limited or in area with a high prevalence of blood-borne
infections.
• Compatibility with diagnostic tests:PFC’s do not interface with laboratory diagnostic tests, allowing for
accurate interpretation of test results without potential complications from the presence of PFC’s
 Limitations of PFCs
• Limited oxygen offloading:While PFCs have a high capacity to carry and dissolve oxygen, they tend to have a reduced
ability to release oxygen to tissues compared to red blood cells. This can result in inefficient oxygen delivery, especially
in situations where oxygen demand is high or oxygen tension in tissues is low.
• Need for specialized administration methods: PFCs typically require specialized administration techniques, such as
emulsification or encapsulation, to enhance their stability and improve their oxygen-carrying capacity. These techniques
can add complexity and cost to the administration process.
• Short half-life: PFCs have a relatively short half-life in the body, leading to the need for frequent administration to
maintain adequate oxygen-carrying capacity. This can be impractical in certain clinical scenarios or situations where
prolonged oxygen delivery is required.
• Clearance and elimination: PFCs are primarily eliminated from the body through the kinetics can vary among
individuals. This can impact their effectiveness and clearance rates potentially limiting their duration of action.
• Side effects and toxicity:PFCs have the potential for side effects and toxicity particularly if used in excessive amounts
or for prolonged periods. Adverse effects can include respiratory distress, immune reactions, and potential organ
toxicity. The safety profile of PFCs needs to be thoroughly studied and monitored.
• Regulatory considerations: PFCs are subject to regulatory approval and scrutiny,lar to other medical products.
Obtaining regulatory approval for PFC-based products can involve extensive testing and evaluation to ensure their
safety and efficiency
Youtube video link
• Echolocation
• [Link]
• Lotus Leaf Effect
• [Link]
• Plant burrs
• [Link]
• Human Blood substitutes
• [Link]
• [Link]