Energy-Saving Nano-Surfaces Inspired by Nature

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LiNaBioFluid researchers used electron microscopes to study desert-dwelling horned lizards, which survive in arid conditions by collecting dew through their skin, and flat bark bugs, which change colour to camouflage themselves from predators when they get wet. Close inspection showed that the creatures possess different micro and nanoscale fluid-transporting structures, forming miniscule surface patterns that can drive liquids in a specific direction with the greatest possible efficiency.

By replicating those same organic patterns on steel, titanium and silicon using precision lasers—a process known as biomimicry—the LiNaBioFluid team was able to demonstrate significant improvements in controlled fluid transport. Tests showed that this biomimetic breakthrough reduced the coefficient of friction by 50% in machine components, such as steel shafts lubricated with engine oil, and could enable the production of much more robust and efficient slide bearings for many mechanical applications.

Faster and more effective lubrication means less friction and resistance, reducing energy use and CO2 emissions, while minimising the wear and tear that shortens the lifespan of machines.

More efficient machinery

‘By working together with biologists and laser experts, the project developed a radical new line of biomimicry technology. The results could be very useful for solving everyday engineering problems that would transform the energy efficiency of millions of machines,’ says project coordinator Emmanuel Stratakis of the Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas in Greece.

The researchers also identified medical uses, including laser-engineered titanium implants with biomimetic surface microstructures wetted by blood and body fluids to prevent overgrowth of tissue and cells. This has the potential to reduce the side effects of hip replacement surgery or enable novel implants to treat cardiovascular disease, a discovery now being explored further in the follow-on FET Innovation Launchpad Project CellFreeImplant.

‘We are also looking at other ways in which these new types of biomimetic and nanoscale structures could be used, for example in underwater applications, in high-power device cooling or to separate water and oil,’ Stratakis says. ‘Furthermore, we are studying the unexpected discovery of anti-reflection properties of bio-inspired laser-induced nanostructures. This finding is being patented and will be investigated further in LaBionicS, a second follow-on FET Innovation Launchpad Project.’