
    |
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An
extensive microscopical study has shown a strong inverse scaling effect
in biological attachment devices: finer
subcontacts increase adhesion. Additionally, the contact shape is extremely important for adhesion enhancement (figure: artificial polymeric
probe with enhanced adhesive properties) |
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Multidisciplinary
studies of biological friction and antifriction mechanisms help in understanding the
biomechanics of surfaces. In addition, the results of such studies
will also be useful for micro mechanics and the material science of composite
materials. (figure: SEM picture of polymeric nanofibers) |
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Plant
hooks have been previously used as prototypes for "hook-and-loop
fasteners". However, there are many biological micro-fastening systems
which have not been previously studied experimentally. Detailed information
about these devices may provide new ideas for novel microfastening systems
(figure: SEM picture of the velcro fastener) |
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Friction,
adhesion and mechanical properties of a surface make up its haptic property.
Our studies may contribute to the engineering and design of haptic surfaces
that create a particular sense of touch (figure: SEM picture of
the polymeric "soft-touch" surface) |
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Material
science is strongly focused on materials with particular surface properties
(adhesive, anti-adhesive, frictional, anti-frictional, water repellent,
self cleaning, "soft-touch" effects). Many materials with such
properties appeared in the course of biological evolution. Therefore, broad
comparative studies on different biological systems may aid in finding some
interesting structure-function relationships.
A
further possible area of application is in pest control. Insect adhesive
pads are often adapted to attach to a surface
of the particular plant. Changes of the structure of the host plant surface
could prevent attachment of particular pest insects to the plant surface.
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