7 b] Discuss the potential applications of
i] shark skin inspired swim suits
ii] Lotus leaf effect self cleaning surfaces
iii] Plant burrs (Velcro)
i ] Applications in shark skin inspired swim suits:
- Biomimicry in Swimwear: Researchers and designers have sought to mimic the properties of shark skin in the development of swimwear. The goal is to reduce the drag experienced by swimmers, ultimately improving their performance in the water.
- Friction-Reducing Swim Suits: These swim suits are designed with textured materials that mimic the microstructure of shark skin. By aligning the texture in a way that reduces water resistance, these swim suits can help swimmers move through the water with less effort and faster speeds.
- Competitive Swimming: Friction-reducing swim suits have been particularly popular in competitive swimming. They are designed to reduce drag and increase buoyancy, enabling swimmers to glide more effectively through the water.
- Wetsuits: Wetsuits used for activities such as scuba diving and surfing also benefit from biomimetic design. The texture on the surface of these suits can reduce drag, enhance flexibility, and improve the overall experience for users in the water
ii ] Applications in Lotus leaf effect self cleaning surfaces
- Self-Cleaning Surfaces: The Lotus leaf effect has inspired the creation of self-cleaning surfaces for various applications. Surfaces coated with superhydrophobic materials repel water and prevent dirt and contaminants from sticking.
- Water-Repellent Textiles: Superhydrophobic coatings can be applied to textiles, making them water- resistant and stain-resistant. This has applications in outdoor clothing, sports gear, and upholstery
- Oil-Water Separation: The Lotus leaf effect is valuable in oil-water separation technologies. Superhydrophobic materials can selectively repel water while absorbing oils, making them useful in cleaning up oil spills and separating oil and water in industrial processes.
- Anti-Icing Surfaces: By repelling water, superhydrophobic surfaces can also reduce ice formation. This has applications in aircraft, power lines, and other infrastructure where ice buildup is problematic
- Biomedical Devices: Superhydrophobic coatings can be applied to medical devices to prevent the buildup of biological materials and make them easier to clean and sterilize.
- Electronics Protection: Superhydrophobic coatings are used to protect electronic devices from water damage, especially in outdoor or rugged environments.
iii ] Applications in Plant burrs (Velcro)
- Clothing and Textiles: Velcro is used in clothing, shoes, and accessories for closures, straps, and adjustability.
- Footwear: Velcro straps are common in shoes, especially children’s and sports footwear.
- Sports and Outdoor Gear: Velcro is used in sports equipment, like gloves and pads, and outdoor gear, including tents and backpacks.
- Medical Devices: Velcro straps are employed in medical braces, splints, and compression garments.
- Aerospace: Velcro is used in spacecraft to secure equipment in a microgravity environment.
- Automotive: Velcro secures interior panels, carpeting, and various accessories in vehicles.
- Packaging: Velcro can be used as a reusable fastening method in packaging.
- Military and Tactical Gear: Velcro is employed in uniforms, gear attachments, and accessories.
- Arts and Crafts: Velcro is a popular material for various creative projects and crafts.
- Cable Management: Velcro cable ties are used to bundle and organize cables and wires.