Journal article
Natural nano-structures on insects - Possible functions of ordered arrays characterized by atomic force microscopy
Applied Surface Science, Vol.235(1-2), pp.139-144
2004
Abstract
Naturally occurring nano-structures is a much-neglected, but potentially rich, source of products that meet specifications imposed by natural selection. While the pharmaceutical industry has long recognized the value of natural compounds, the emerging industries based on nanotechnology have so far made little use of 'free' technology that has been 'invented' over evolutionary time-scales and driven by the imperatives of species survival. Ordered hexagonal packed array structures on cicada (e.g., Pflatoda claripennis) and termite (e.g., family Rhinotermitidae) wings have been investigated in this study. The spacings range from 200 to 1000 nm. The structures tend to have a rounded shape at the apex and protrude some 150-350 nm out from the surface plane. Wing structures with spacings at the lower end of the range are most likely optimized to serve as an anti-reflective coating (natural 'stealth technology') but may also act as a self-cleaning coating (the Lotus effect). Structures with spacings at the upper end of the range may provide mechanical strength to prevent load failure under flight and/or aid in the aerodynamic efficiency of the insect. This study demonstrates the multi-purpose design of natural structures. © 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.
Details
- Title
- Natural nano-structures on insects - Possible functions of ordered arrays characterized by atomic force microscopy
- Authors
- Gregory S Watson (Author) - Griffith UniversityJolanta A Watson (Author) - Griffith University
- Publication details
- Applied Surface Science, Vol.235(1-2), pp.139-144
- Publisher
- Elsevier BV
- Date published
- 2004
- DOI
- 10.1016/j.apsusc.2004.05.129
- ISSN
- 0169-4332
- Organisation Unit
- School of Science and Engineering - Legacy; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Science, Technology and Engineering
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99449228702621
- Output Type
- Journal article
Metrics
528 Record Views
InCites Highlights
These are selected metrics from InCites Benchmarking & Analytics tool, related to this output
- Web Of Science research areas
- Chemistry, Physical
- Materials Science, Coatings & Films
- Physics, Applied
- Physics, Condensed Matter
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This output has contributed to the advancement of the following goals:
Source: InCites