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Multi-Scale Bionic Materials: Interfacial Design, Effective Fabrication and Functional Application
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Multi-Scale Bionic Materials: Interfacial Design, Effective Fabrication and Functional Application

A special issue of Materials (ISSN 1996-1944). This special issue belongs to the section "Smart Materials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 October 2025 | Viewed by 5711

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Haoqi Yang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Electrical, Energy and Power Engineering, Institute of Technology for Carbon Neutralization, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China
Interests: circular economy; functional aerogel; bionic interfaces; energy storage and conversion
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Xiaolin Liu

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Bionic Micro-Nano Systems, School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
Interests: bio-inspired functional surface; micro-nano scale fabrication; functional composites; anti-icing/de-icing
Dr. Yunyun Song

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Mechanical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
Interests: bionic functional surfaces; separation of micro-nano surfaces and interfaces; droplets control

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Bionic materials are advanced materials inspired by natural systems, designed to function across multiple scales, from the molecular to the macroscopic level. These materials leverage principles observed in nature, such as hierarchical structuring and interfacial design, to achieve exceptional properties that can surpass those of conventional materials. Interfacial design is a crucial aspect of multi-scale bionic materials. By mimicking the way natural materials manage interfaces between different components, researchers can create materials with enhanced mechanical strength, flexibility, and durability. For example, the seamless integration found in nacre (mother of pearl) and the energy-dissipating interfaces in bone can inspire materials with superior toughness and resilience. Moreover, the investigation of the microstructure of each natural material, including superhydrophobic lotus leaves, superhydrophilic spider silk, and underwater superoleophobic fish scales, brings inspiration to materials science.

Effective fabrication of these materials involves advanced manufacturing techniques that can precisely control structure at multiple scales. Techniques such as additive manufacturing (3D printing), laser ablation, electrospinning, and layer-by-layer assembly are essential for replicating the complex architectures seen in biological materials. These methods allow for the fine-tuning of material properties and the creation of intricate designs that can enhance functionality. Functional applications of multi-scale bionic materials are broad and impactful. In biomedical engineering, these materials can be used to develop better implants, prosthetics, and tissue engineering scaffolds that more closely mimic the mechanical and biological properties of natural tissues. In aerospace and automotive industries, lightweight yet strong materials inspired by nature can lead to more efficient and sustainable designs. Additionally, in energy storage and conversion, bionic materials can improve the performance of batteries and fuel cells by enhancing mass transfer and structural integrity.

Thus, the development of multi-scale bionic materials holds great promise for advancing technology in various fields, driven by the lessons learned from nature's own engineering. This Special Issue aims to explore research on the design and fabrication of bionic materials for functional applications. This Special Issue is addressed to scholars who have embraced an interdisciplinary and progressive approach in their research activities and have achieved promising results. Moreover, we welcome contributions from practitioners who have been involved in successful public–private partnerships in the field of sustainable development.

Dr. Haoqi Yang
Dr. Xiaolin Liu
Dr. Yunyun Song
Guest Editors

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. Materials is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly 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 2600 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

  • bionic functional materials
  • bionic fabrication
  • biomaterials
  • interfacial design
  • antibacterial materials
  • bio-inspired actuator
  • radiative cooling
  • oil–water separation
  • energy conversion
  • anti-icing surface design

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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24 pages, 4823 KiB  
Article
Bioactive Glass and Melittin Thin Films Deposited by MAPLE for Titanium Implant Functionalization
by Mihaela Dinu, Bogdan Bita, Anca Constantina Parau, Carmen Ristoscu and Irina Negut
Materials 2025, 18(10), 2410; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18102410 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 229
Abstract
The development of bioactive coatings for metallic implants is essential to enhance osseointegration and improve implant longevity. In this study, composite thin films based on bioactive glass and melittin were synthesized using the matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation technique and deposited onto titanium substrates. [...] Read more.
The development of bioactive coatings for metallic implants is essential to enhance osseointegration and improve implant longevity. In this study, composite thin films based on bioactive glass and melittin were synthesized using the matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation technique and deposited onto titanium substrates. The coatings were characterized using physicochemical analysis methods, including scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, contact angle measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Simulated body fluid immersion tests were also conducted to assess bioactivity over time. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy revealed dense, irregular surface textures with nanoscale features and an average roughness of ~120 nm, favorable for cell adhesion. Contact angle measurements showed a significant shift from hydrophobic (~95° for bare titanium) to moderately hydrophilic (~62° for the bioglass and melittin coating) surfaces, indicating improved biocompatibility. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy demonstrated enhanced corrosion resistance in simulated body fluid, with the coating exhibiting a ~45% decrease in impedance magnitude after 12 h of immersion, compared to only 4% for bare titanium. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses confirmed the progressive formation of a carbonated apatite layer after 7 days of simulated body fluid exposure, suggesting high bioactivity and osteoconductive potential. The combined effects of bioactive glass and melittin in the thin film structure offer promising applications in orthopedic and dental implants, enhancing both biological performance and structural integrity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Scale Bionic Materials: Interfacial Design, Effective Fabrication and Functional Application)
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17 pages, 1599 KiB  
Article
New Biodegradable Carboxymethyl Cellulose-Based Films with Liquid Products of Wood Pine Pyrolysis with Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties
by Grażyna B. Dąbrowska, Marcel Antoszewski, Aleksandra Szydłowska-Czerniak, Aneta Raszkowska-Kaczor, Tomasz Jędrzejewski, Sylwia Wrotek, Monika Bartkowiak, Maria Swiontek Brzezinska and Magdalena Zborowska
Materials 2025, 18(10), 2228; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18102228 - 12 May 2025
Viewed by 378
Abstract
Novel carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) films with liquid products of pyrolysis (LPP) from wood pine were produced. The obtained CMC-LPP films were plasticized with 5% glycerol. CMC-LPP films were a light brown colour with a characteristic smoky scent, and showed a higher oxygen permeability when [...] Read more.
Novel carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) films with liquid products of pyrolysis (LPP) from wood pine were produced. The obtained CMC-LPP films were plasticized with 5% glycerol. CMC-LPP films were a light brown colour with a characteristic smoky scent, and showed a higher oxygen permeability when compared to control film without the addition of the LPP. CMC-LPP exhibited high antioxidant activity (5 and 18 times higher than CMC films). Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of the CMC-LPP films was tested, showing a strong inhibiting growth effect on the seven tested human pathogenic bacteria. The new material had the most substantial bacteriostatic effect on Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella typhimurium, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Introduction of LPP to plasticised CMC produces an eco-friendly material with biocidal effect and favourable mechanical and structural properties, which shows its potential for possible use in many industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Scale Bionic Materials: Interfacial Design, Effective Fabrication and Functional Application)
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15 pages, 5387 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Osteoinductive Properties of Nanosized Lithium-Modified Calcium-Organic Frameworks
by Daniel Vargas, Daniel Peña, Emma Whitehead, Warren L. Grayson, Benjamin P. Le Monnier, Michael Tsapatsis, Patricio Romero-Hasler, Rocío Orellana, Miguel Neira and Cristian Covarrubias
Materials 2025, 18(9), 2091; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18092091 - 2 May 2025
Viewed by 395
Abstract
The development of biomaterials that enhance bone healing and integrate with native bone tissue has gained significant interest. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising candidates due to their unique surface properties and biocompatibility. While various bioactive element-incorporated MOFs have been studied, the [...] Read more.
The development of biomaterials that enhance bone healing and integrate with native bone tissue has gained significant interest. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising candidates due to their unique surface properties and biocompatibility. While various bioactive element-incorporated MOFs have been studied, the osteogenic potential of lithium (Li)-modified MOFs remains largely unexplored. This study presents the synthesis and characterization of a nanosized calcium-based MOF incorporating Li⁺ ions to enhance osteoinductive properties. The MOFs were evaluated in vitro for apatite mineralization, degradation, ion release, protein adsorption, cell adhesion, viability, and osteogenic differentiation using pre-osteoblast cells. The synthesized MOFs promoted apatite formation under simulated physiological conditions, facilitated by their surface nucleation properties, controlled degradation, and sustained Li+ and Ca2+ ion release. Cytocompatibility assays confirmed excellent pre-osteoblast adhesion and viability. Furthermore, CaMOF nanoparticles stimulated osteogenic differentiation by enhancing alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, even in the absence of osteogenic supplements. Among tested MOFs, Li/CaMOF exhibited the highest osteoinductive potential. These findings highlight lithium-modified MOFs as promising biomaterials for bone regeneration. However, further in vivo studies are necessary to assess their long-term stability, bone integration, and clinical applicability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Scale Bionic Materials: Interfacial Design, Effective Fabrication and Functional Application)
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15 pages, 3501 KiB  
Article
CO2-Responsive Worm-like Micelle Based on Double-Tailed Surfactant
by Fanghui Liu, Huiyu Huang, Mingmin Zhang, Meng Mu, Rui Chen and Xin Su
Materials 2025, 18(4), 902; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18040902 - 19 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 463
Abstract
CO2-responsive worm-like micelles (WLMs) are considered promising for applications in smart materials, enhanced oil recovery, and drug delivery because of their reversible and tunable properties. This study presents a novel system of CO2-responsive WLMs, which is constructed using a [...] Read more.
CO2-responsive worm-like micelles (WLMs) are considered promising for applications in smart materials, enhanced oil recovery, and drug delivery because of their reversible and tunable properties. This study presents a novel system of CO2-responsive WLMs, which is constructed using a double-tailed surfactant (DTS). When exposed to CO2, the DTS molecules undergo protonation, resulting in the formation of ultra-long-chain cationic surfactants that self-assemble into worm-like micelles. The zero-shear viscosity of the DTS–CO2 solution achieves approximately 300,000 mPa·s, which is 300,000 times higher than that of pure water. In contrast, the DTS–air solution exhibits a viscosity of only 2 mPa·s. The system retains a viscosity above 100,000 mPa·s across a temperature range of 25–120 °C under a CO2 atmosphere. Moreover, it demonstrates reversible transitions between high- and low-viscosity states without any loss of responsiveness, even after multiple cycles. The critical overlap concentration of the DTS–CO2 micellar system is determined to be 80 mM. This research offers valuable insights into the development of CO2-responsive surfactants, highlighting their potential for designing advanced functional materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Scale Bionic Materials: Interfacial Design, Effective Fabrication and Functional Application)
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21 pages, 6804 KiB  
Article
Microscopic and Biomechanical Analysis of PEEK Interspinous Spacers for Spinal Fusion Applications
by Elliot Alonso Alcántara-Arreola, Aida Verónica Rodríguez-Tovas, José Alejandro Hernández-Benítez and Christopher René Torres-SanMiguel
Materials 2025, 18(3), 679; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030679 - 4 Feb 2025
Viewed by 681
Abstract
Spinal fusion is a surgical intervention used to join two or more vertebrae in the spine. An often-used method involves the placement of intervertebral spacers. They are commonly composed of biocompatible materials like polyetheretherketone. It has strength, longevity, and the capacity to interact [...] Read more.
Spinal fusion is a surgical intervention used to join two or more vertebrae in the spine. An often-used method involves the placement of intervertebral spacers. They are commonly composed of biocompatible materials like polyetheretherketone. It has strength, longevity, and the capacity to interact harmoniously with the human body. Standardized mechanical tests were performed on two distinct implants to assess their biomechanical characteristics. The studies were conducted at a velocity of 2 mm/min. The stopping criteria were determined based on the loads sustained by the 50th percentile. Furthermore, the chemical composition of the implants was assessed using Raman spectroscopy. The implant created via subtractive manufacturing has a significant change in its elastic region at a force of 1300 N, and it begins subsidence when vertebrae are subjected to a load of 1500 N. The integration of microscopic characterization techniques with the mechanical analysis of prostheses in numerous case studies facilitates the biomechanical evaluation of implants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Scale Bionic Materials: Interfacial Design, Effective Fabrication and Functional Application)
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18 pages, 4752 KiB  
Article
Three-Dimensionally Printed Bionic Hydroxyapatite (HAp) Ceramic Scaffolds with Different Structures and Porosities: Strength, Biocompatibility, and Biomedical Application Potential
by Peng Zhang, Qing Zhou and Rujie He
Materials 2024, 17(24), 6092; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17246092 - 13 Dec 2024
Viewed by 962
Abstract
Bionic bioceramic scaffolds are essential for achieving excellent implant properties and biocompatible behavior. In this study, inspired by the microstructure of natural bone, bionic hydroxyapatite (HAp) ceramic scaffolds with different structures (body-centered cubic (BCC), face-centered cubic (FCC), and gyroid Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces [...] Read more.
Bionic bioceramic scaffolds are essential for achieving excellent implant properties and biocompatible behavior. In this study, inspired by the microstructure of natural bone, bionic hydroxyapatite (HAp) ceramic scaffolds with different structures (body-centered cubic (BCC), face-centered cubic (FCC), and gyroid Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces (TPMSs)) and porosities (80 vol.%, 60 vol.%, and 40 vol.%) were designed, 3D-printed, and characterized. The effects of structure and porosity on the morphology, mechanical properties, and in vitro biocompatibility properties of the HAp scaffolds were studied and compared with each other. Interestingly, the HAp scaffold with a porosity of 80 vol.% and a TPMS structure had the best combination of compressive strength and in vitro biocompatibility, and demonstrated a great biomedical application potential for bone repair. We hope this study can provide a reference for the application and development of HAp scaffolds in the field of bone repair engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Scale Bionic Materials: Interfacial Design, Effective Fabrication and Functional Application)
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Review

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25 pages, 2237 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Barnacle-Inspired Biomaterials in the Field of Biomedical Research
by Tiantian Min, Zhongna Zhang, Lan Chen and Jingan Li
Materials 2025, 18(3), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18030502 - 22 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1489
Abstract
As a marine fouling organism, barnacles secrete a cement whose proteins self-assemble into stable nanofibers, conferring exceptional underwater adhesion and curing properties. The barnacle cement proteins (BCPs) are of significant interest in biomedicine due to their adhesiveness, water resistance, stability, and biocompatibility, making [...] Read more.
As a marine fouling organism, barnacles secrete a cement whose proteins self-assemble into stable nanofibers, conferring exceptional underwater adhesion and curing properties. The barnacle cement proteins (BCPs) are of significant interest in biomedicine due to their adhesiveness, water resistance, stability, and biocompatibility, making them ideal for developing novel biomaterials. Additionally, BCPs have wound-healing acceleration and antibacterial properties, offering new insights for antimicrobial biomaterial development. Recently, barnacle-inspired materials have seen extensive research and notable progress in biomedicine. As the understanding of barnacle cement and its adhesion mechanisms deepens, their medical applications are expected to expand. This review summarizes the latest advancements of barnacle biomimetic materials in biomedicine, including their use in adhesives, tissue engineering, drug delivery, and hemostasis, highlighting their characteristics, applications, and potential research directions, and providing a comprehensive reference for the field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Scale Bionic Materials: Interfacial Design, Effective Fabrication and Functional Application)
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