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Biomimetics
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Bioinspired Engineering and the Design of Biomimetic Structures: 2nd Edition
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Bioinspired Engineering and the Design of Biomimetic Structures: 2nd Edition

A special issue of Biomimetics (ISSN 2313-7673). This special issue belongs to the section "Biomimetics of Materials and Structures".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 October 2024) | Viewed by 7256

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Peng Liu

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Guest Editor
Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Guilin University of Electronic Technology, Guilin 541004, China
Interests: mechanical structure; bioinspired structure design; green materials; 3D/4D printing; fracture mechanics; finite element method; extended finite element method; phase field method
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The hierarchical structure is a widely used strategy to enhance the mechanical properties of biomaterials, as seen in materials such as bamboo, wood, nacre, fish scales, and others. By mimicking the hierarchical structure found in natural materials, researchers can create materials with improved mechanical properties for use in various fields, such as aerospace, construction, and biomedical engineering. The aim of this Special Issue is to gather submissions from different laboratories working on the mechanical behavior of bioinspired hierarchical structures and engineering applications. By making use of the open access format, the current compilation of papers is expected to provide a platform for biomimetic approaches by discovering new and significant research opportunities as well as innovative solutions in bioinspired structures and technology.

To further its aim of combining basic research and applications, this Special Issue is divided into two main parts as follows:

  • Part (a) Bioinspired hierarchical structures, covering topics such as bioinspired hierarchical structure design, biological systems, biomimicry design methods, lattice structure, architected materials, mechanical metamaterials, material mechanics, fracture mechanics, numerical method, 3D/4D printing, freecasting, and material synthesis. 
  • Part (b) Engineering applications, including energy-absorbing structures, medical devices, wings of aircraft, building structures, flexible sensors, and robotics.

We believe that this initiative will fill an important gap in biomimetic structural mechanics and engineering applications.

Dr. Peng Liu
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Biomimetics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • hierarchical structure
  • bioinspired structure
  • architected materials
  • mechanical metamaterials
  • solid mechanics
  • numerical method
  • flexible sensor
  • energy absorb
  • 3D/4D printing
  • soft robot

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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23 pages, 4259 KiB  
Article
Stress Analysis and Stiffness Degradation of Open Cracks Composite Laminates Subjected to External Loads
by Zhicheng Huang, Shengyun Su, Xingguo Wang and Fulei Chu
Biomimetics 2025, 10(3), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10030177 - 12 Mar 2025
Viewed by 361
Abstract
Composite laminated structures have extensive applications in the field of bionic engineering. Proficient comprehension of the mechanical properties of these structures is instrumental in the advancement of bionic composite materials. The objective of this study is to investigate the stress distribution and degradation [...] Read more.
Composite laminated structures have extensive applications in the field of bionic engineering. Proficient comprehension of the mechanical properties of these structures is instrumental in the advancement of bionic composite materials. The objective of this study is to investigate the stress distribution and degradation of stiffness in composite laminates exhibiting open smooth surface cracks under varying external loads and structural parameters. Utilizing the general series function of the laminate’s axial stress, the general expression for the stress components of the damaged laminate is derived by integrating the equilibrium differential equation, boundary conditions, and stress continuity conditions. The influence of fiber orientation and material properties on the stress distribution within each layer of symmetric composite laminates was examined. Thereafter, the reduction in cross-layer shear modulus was assessed by employing the principle of complementary energy minimization. The impact of structural parameters on shear modulus reduction was explored. The findings indicate that structural and material parameters of symmetric laminates featuring transverse matrix cracks exert a notable influence on the stress distribution and degradation of stiffness within each layer, imparting practical significance to the research outcomes in engineering applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinspired Engineering and the Design of Biomimetic Structures: 2nd Edition)
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26 pages, 5315 KiB  
Article
Biomimicry-Based Design of Underground Cold Storage Facilities: Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
by Mugdha Kshirsagar, Sanjay Kulkarni, Ankush Kumar Meena, Danby Caetano D’costa, Aroushi Bhagwat, Md Irfanul Haque Siddiqui and Dan Dobrotă
Biomimetics 2025, 10(2), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10020122 - 18 Feb 2025
Viewed by 901
Abstract
Underground cold storage gives rise to special challenges that require innovative solutions to ensure maximum energy efficiency. Conventional energy systems tend to be based on high energy use, so sustainable solutions are crucial. This study explores the novel idea of biomimetics and how [...] Read more.
Underground cold storage gives rise to special challenges that require innovative solutions to ensure maximum energy efficiency. Conventional energy systems tend to be based on high energy use, so sustainable solutions are crucial. This study explores the novel idea of biomimetics and how it might be used in the planning and building of underground cold storage facilities as well as other infrastructure projects. Biomimetic strategies, inspired by termite mounds, gentoo penguin feathers, and beehive structures, are applied to minimize reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems. These natural models offer efficient thermal regulation, airflow optimization, and passive cooling mechanisms such as geothermal energy harvesting. The integration of naturally driven convection and ventilation ensures stable internal temperatures under varying conditions. Biomimicry was employed in Revit Architecture, coupled with structural optimization, to eliminate urban space’s limitations and further increase energy efficiency. The analytical work for this paper utilized a set of formulas that represent heat flow, thermal resistance, R-value, thermal transmittance, U-value, solar absorption, and G-value. The results pointed to very good insulation, with exterior walls having an R-value of 10.2 m2K/W and U-value of 0.98 W/m2K. Among the chosen 3-layer ETFE cushion with a U-value of 1.96 W/m2K, with a G-value of 0.50, showed good heat regulation and daylight management. Furthermore, bagasse-cement composites with a very low thermal conductivity of 0.10–0.30 W/m·K provided good insulation. This research proposes a scalable and sustainable approach in the design of underground cold storage by merging modelling based on Revit with thermal simulations. Biomimicry has been demonstrated to have the potential for changing subterranean infrastructure, conserving energy consumption, and creating eco-friendly construction practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinspired Engineering and the Design of Biomimetic Structures: 2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 16367 KiB  
Article
Integration of Thermo-Responsive Materials Applied to Bio-Inspired Structures
by Elton Lima, Hilma Ferreira, Luís Mateus and Amilton Arruda
Biomimetics 2025, 10(2), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10020068 - 22 Jan 2025
Viewed by 939
Abstract
This paper investigates the integration of thermo-responsive materials into bio-inspired structures, combining biomimicry and adaptive technologies in architecture. A problem-based biomimetic approach and a morphological analogy with the plate-type snowflake—known for its lightness, transparency, and crystalline organisation—were adopted to develop the geometry of [...] Read more.
This paper investigates the integration of thermo-responsive materials into bio-inspired structures, combining biomimicry and adaptive technologies in architecture. A problem-based biomimetic approach and a morphological analogy with the plate-type snowflake—known for its lightness, transparency, and crystalline organisation—were adopted to develop the geometry of an architectural pavilion. This research highlights glass as a main constructive material, analysing the potential of thermochromic film and the hydrogel technique, both inserted in the context of thermo-responsiveness. In this regard, the focus is on adaptations to temperature changes, exploring how these materials can alter their properties in response to solar incidence, offering solutions for energy efficiency, thermal regulation, and environmental adaptation. The pavilion demonstrates that this integration is feasible, and this is supported by an interdisciplinary approach that combines materials science, bio-inspired design, and practical experimentation. It also highlights biomimicry’s fundamental role as a tool for guiding the development of innovative architectural geometries, while thermo-responsive materials expand the possibilities for creating structures that are adaptable to temperature variations and solar exposure. The conclusion points to the applicability and relevance of this combination, highlighting the transformative potential of thermo-responsive materials in architectural projects, especially in the development of lightweight, transparent, and environmentally responsive structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinspired Engineering and the Design of Biomimetic Structures: 2nd Edition)
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22 pages, 7559 KiB  
Article
Elucidating Collapse-Resistant Mechanisms of Pore Geometries in Fire Ant Nest Cavities
by Tyler Felgenhauer, Satchi Venkataraman and Ethan Mullen
Biomimetics 2024, 9(12), 735; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9120735 - 3 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2138
Abstract
Porous materials and structures, such as subterranean fire ant nests, are abundant in nature. It is hypothesized that these structures likely have evolved biological adaptations that enhance their collapse resistance. This research aims to elucidate the collapse-resistant mechanisms of pore geometries in fire [...] Read more.
Porous materials and structures, such as subterranean fire ant nests, are abundant in nature. It is hypothesized that these structures likely have evolved biological adaptations that enhance their collapse resistance. This research aims to elucidate the collapse-resistant mechanisms of pore geometries in fire ant nests. Finite Element Models of ant nests in soil were generated using X-ray CT imaging of aluminum castings of ant nests. Representative volume elements of the ant nests, representing porous structures at various depths, were analyzed under confined compression. This work on investigating fire ant (sp. Solenopsis Invicta) nests found them to be hierarchical and graded at various depths that affect how they resist loads and collapse. The top portion acts as a protective shield by distributing damage and absorbing energy. In contrast, the lower chambers localize stress, contributing to damage tolerance. This research provides evidence to suggest that ant nests have developed properties that allow them to resist collapse. These findings could inform the design of lightweight and durable cellular structures in various engineering fields. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinspired Engineering and the Design of Biomimetic Structures: 2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 2947 KiB  
Article
Three-Dimensional Printing of Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures for Enhanced Fog Collection Efficiency in 3D Space via Vat Photopolymerization
by Daleanna Charoensook, Shah Md Ashiquzzaman Nipu, Ana Girish, Qingqing He, Shan Cheng, Kevin Chapman, Nathan Xie, Cindy Xiangjia Li and Yang Yang
Biomimetics 2024, 9(12), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics9120734 - 3 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1314
Abstract
Collecting fog water is crucial for dry areas since natural moisture and fog are significant sources of freshwater. Sustainable and energy-efficient water collection systems can take a page out of the cactus’s playbook by mimicking its native fog gathering process. Inspired by the [...] Read more.
Collecting fog water is crucial for dry areas since natural moisture and fog are significant sources of freshwater. Sustainable and energy-efficient water collection systems can take a page out of the cactus’s playbook by mimicking its native fog gathering process. Inspired by the unique geometric structure of the cactus spine, we fabricated a bioinspired artificial fog collector consisting of cactus spines featuring barbs of different sizes and angles on the surfaces for water collection and a series of microcavities within microchannels inspired by Nepenthes Alata on the bottom to facilitate water flowing to the reservoir. However, replicating the actual shape of the cactus spine using conventional manufacturing techniques is challenging, and research in this area has faced a limitation in enhancing water-collecting efficiency. Here, we turned to 3D printing technology (vat photopolymerization) to create bio-mimetic fog collectors with a variety of geometric shapes that would allow for the most effective conveyance and gathering of water. Various barb sizes, angles between each barb in a single array, spine and barb arrangements, and quantity of barbs were tested experimentally and numeric analysis was carried out to measure the volume of water collected and optimize the mass rate. The result shows that optimal fog collection is with a mass flow rate of 0.7433 g/min, with Li = 900 μm, θ = 45°, ϕ = 90°, Nb = 2, and Ns = 5. This study presents a sustainable and ecologically sound method for efficiently collecting humid air, which is expected to be advantageous for the advancement of future-oriented fog-collection, water-transportation, and separation technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinspired Engineering and the Design of Biomimetic Structures: 2nd Edition)
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Review

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19 pages, 2788 KiB  
Review
Exploring Modeling Techniques for Soft Arms: A Survey on Numerical, Analytical, and Data-Driven Approaches
by Shengkai Liu, Hongfei Yu, Ning Ding, Xuchun He, Hengli Liu and Jun Zhang
Biomimetics 2025, 10(2), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10020071 - 24 Jan 2025
Viewed by 953
Abstract
Soft arms, characterized by their compliance and adaptability, have gained significant attention in applications ranging from industrial automation to biomedical fields. Modeling these systems presents unique challenges due to their high degrees of freedom, nonlinear behavior, and complex material properties. This review provides [...] Read more.
Soft arms, characterized by their compliance and adaptability, have gained significant attention in applications ranging from industrial automation to biomedical fields. Modeling these systems presents unique challenges due to their high degrees of freedom, nonlinear behavior, and complex material properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of three primary modeling approaches: numerical methods, analytical techniques, and data-driven models. Numerical methods, including finite element analysis and multi-body dynamics, offer precise but computationally expensive solutions for simulating soft arm behaviors. Analytical models, rooted in continuum mechanics and simplified assumptions, provide insights into the fundamental principles while balancing computational efficiency. Data-driven approaches, leveraging machine learning and artificial intelligence, open new avenues for adaptive and real-time modeling by bypassing explicit physical formulations. The strengths, limitations, and application scenarios of each approach are systematically analyzed, and future directions for integrating these methodologies are discussed. This review aims to guide researchers in selecting and developing effective modeling strategies for advancing the field of soft robotic arm design and control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinspired Engineering and the Design of Biomimetic Structures: 2nd Edition)
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