Natural Materials
- Large variety of materials with unique properties. Built with relatively limited number of components (e.g. polymers and ceramics).
- Complex hierarchical structures that encompass multiple length scales (nano, micro, macro, etc.).
- “Whole is greater than the sum of its parts”
- Local optimums for biological functions and constraints. Evolution tailored architecture for many uses.
- Combine stiff and soft components. Layered, columnar, or fibrous motifs. Distinct layers with different motifs. Porous, gradients of density.
- Many capable of self-repair.
- Difficult to synthesize, unclear if possible to produce at mass-scales for human use.
Engineered materials
- Developed through formulation and synthesis of new compounds.
- Structural control at micrometer scale, with nanoscale on the horizon.
- Most advances occured through trail-and-error or lucky accidents.
The challenge is to mimic natural material’s complex architectures. Unlike biological mechanisms, human engineering is not limited by materials, structures, etc. Potentially endless possibilities.
