Definition
Biomimicry ‘refers to the process of imitating the products and processes of nature’ (Volstad & Boks 2012, p. 190). Scientists are currently using nature ‘as a standard of measure or model’ (Reed 2004, p. 23). Human beings have tried to imitate the elements, systems, and principles of nature. Human beings embrace the practice in order to solve most of their complex problems and challenges. Biomimicry is possible because many living organisms have developed new materials and structures to overcome harsh environmental conditions. Such adaptations make it easier for living organisms to survive. This practice explains why biomimicry has become an important practice today.
Major Uses of Biomimicry
Biomimicry has made it easier for man to produce new technologies and inventions. Biological solutions can address many challenges encountered by living organisms. Man uses nature to solve many problems in engineering and science. Researchers are using biomimicry ‘to solve many challenges such as lack of energy and self-heating capabilities’ (Reed 2004, p. 23). Biomimicry has become a useful practice in many fields such as science, technology, building, and medicine. The discussion below analyzes the major uses of biomimicry.
Science
Most of ‘the products used by man today are produced through biomimicry’ (Reed 2004, p. 23). Scientists have always examined the behaviours of different animals and plants in order to come up with new inventions. The ‘invention of Velcro explains how man has benefited from nature’ (Reed 2004, p. 25). Scientists developed ‘this concept after examining the mechanism of seed hooks’ (Reed 2004, p. 23). Scientists have also used nature to solve the problem of energy. The scientific invention of silicon-based solar cells borrows a lot from the principle of photosynthesis. Scientists are also trying to use the same energy model to produce sustainable electricity. Scientists are looking for new ways to produce energy using various chemical processes. Some of these applications include ‘the ability to produce power packs and hydrogen gas from water’ (Reed 2004, p. 24).
Scientists have also produced different adhesives and glues after examining the behaviors of plants. The greatest challenge facing many chemical scientists is the presence of moisture. The moisture can separate adhesives from the targeted surfaces. Researchers are looking for new ways to deal with the challenge. Many living organisms such as shellfishes can form tight connections with different materials or surfaces. These organisms produce proteins that can form strong bonds (Reed 2004). This natural process is very complex. Scientists are looking for new ways to mimic this model of nature.
Many weeds can survive in different environments. Some weeds can grow very fast even after disturbance. Such weeds do not require pesticides, fertilisers, or herbicides. Scientists have tried to study these plants in order to use the same model in crop production. Scientists ‘have also developed admirable displays for electronic-readers by mimicking butterfly wings’ (Reed 2004, p. 25). Such wings can gleam after exposure to bright light. Some animals are capable of walking along ceilings and walls (Reed 2004). For example, geckos have clumps of projections on their feet. These projections contain tiny fibers known as spatulae (Reed 2004). Scientists are working hard to develop a new adhesive using the same principle. The adhesive will be applied in medical devices and climbing equipment. This discussion explains why mimicry makes it easier for scientists to produce new ideas and products.
Health and Medicine
The fields of medicine and health have benefited the most from biomimicry. Medical scientists have identified new procedures for implanting human skins. Doctors use ‘skin transplants to treat burns and wounds’ (Smith 2010, p. 53). The method borrows a lot from a parasitic worm called Pomphorhynchus laevis. This worm can use razor-like appendages or spines to attack different body tissues and intestines. The parasite has a cactus-like ganglion. Doctors use an adhesive with tiny needles to treat burns. The ‘adhesive is capable of swelling up after it is exposed to water’ (Volstad & Boks 2012, p. 190). Many doctors have explained why the material is effective.
Spider silk is a strong natural product. Scientists have produced a similar tape that can mimic this silk. The tape is capable of peeling off without damaging any human tissue. Medical professionals are experimenting ‘how they can use the tape to attach sensors and devices to any delicate human skin’ (Smith 2010, p. 54). Doctors and researchers use biomimicry to produce various antibiotics. This practice has continued to save many human lives. The human body produces white blood cells (WBC) to attack any foreign substance in the system. These antibodies will attack every foreign object in the body. The ‘body retains the memory for producing such antibodies to combat any future attack’ (Smith 2010, p. 54). Scientists are currently using the same concept to produce different vaccines.
Human beings cannot produce insulin, hormones, or enzymes using artificial methods. Biotechnologists have mimicked the concept of DNA expression in rDNA technology (Smith 2010). The process is relevant towards producing similar compounds that do not pose any compatibility challenge (Smith 2010). Homeopathy is another important use of biomimicry in medicine. Human bodies have natural propensities to combat various diseases. The introduction of Aconite in the body of a person will increase his or her temperatures. The body will start to fight the fever because of the increased temperatures.
Some drugs should only function at specific areas in the human body. Such drugs can damage every untargeted area of the body. They can also cause numerous side effects are when exposed to undesignated parts of the body (Smith 2010). Chemotactic methods are important because they deliver drugs to the desired parts of the human body. This discussion explains why human beings will always use biomimicry to achieve the best goals in health care.
Building and Architecture
Natural forms have always provided a wide range of models for human structures and buildings. Many architects are no longer using artificial lighting systems for their structures. These architects and planners are using natural lighting for their buildings. Biomimicry has continued to motivate this practice. Scientists are using sustainable methods to supply their buildings with enough energy. This process explains why solar and wind energies are becoming favorable today. Architects have also constructed artificial bio-homes in several parts of the world (Pawlyn 2011). Engineers and architects are designing such homes using different natural forms.
Many buildings are capable of interacting with their surrounding environments in a sustainable manner. Such efforts have made it easier to regulate temperatures without using air conditioners. The Qatar Cacti Building embraces a unique relationship with its surrounding environment. The model explains why architects should be ready to deal with every harsh environmental condition. The ‘Sahara Forest Project is a spectacular greenhouse that will rely on natural energy in order to reduce the amount of wastes’ (Pawlyn 2011, p. 83). Eggs are spherical in nature (Mahmoud & El-Zeiny 2012). This fact explains why eggs are strong. Architects have mimicked the same principle to construct durable columns for their buildings. Architects are using the same concept to construct bridges across the world.
List of References
Mahmoud, R & El-Zeiny, A 2012, ‘Biomimicry as a Problem Solving Methodology in Interior Architecture’, Social and Behavioral Sciences, vol. 50, no. 1, pp. 502-512.
Pawlyn, M 2011, ‘Natural Inspiration’, Sustain, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 82-83.
Reed, P 2004, ‘Biomimicry is a new way of linking the human-made world to the natural world’, The Technology Teacher, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 23-27.
Smith, J 2010, ‘It’s Only Natural’, Ecologist, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 52-55.
Volstad, N & Boks, C 2012, ‘On the Use of Biomimicry as a Useful Tool for the Industrial Designer’, Sustainable Development, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 189-199.