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Getting started

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Theresa Millard

The project Biomimicry Changemakers Framework - BCF has received funding from the European Commision under the Erasmus + Programme, Action Type KA210-ADU - Small-scale partnerships in adult education, no. 2023-1-ES01-KA210-ADU-0001655552

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Introduction

What is Biomimicry?

How does nature…?

Examples of human challenges solved in nature

Useful resources

What might you do next?

Learning from nature

Nature has been part of human existence for a long time

Case studies

Human solutions inspired by nature

Questions and closing

Discussion

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Table of Contents

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Introduction

What is Biomimicry?

Paper Wasp Nest: Mike Huibregtse

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INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Sand Dollar: Mike Huibregtse

What is Biomimicry?

Interdisciplinary approach that seeks inspiration from nature to solve human challenges by emulating the strategies, processes, and designs found in the natural world.

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Biomimicry 3.8

Biomimicry Essential Elements

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Nautilus Shell: Mike Huibregtse

bio = life

mimicry = imitate

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Biomimicry is a design, innovation and sustainability practice that learns from and mimics the strategies found in nature to solve human design problems.

Fundamentally what we can say is that the species alive today have a huge 3.8 billion year R&D effort behind them, they are at the end of a pipeline of thousands of experiments in which, good ideas survive, and the rest are history. Imagine in a business having access to that kind of learning and fine tuning. We do, we just have to ask how would nature do that? And then extrapolate the principles and strategies to apply to human design challenges.

The essence of Janine’s book – innovation inspired by nature is “How might we create conditions conducive to life?” I think the more salient question we might ask today is “how might we create conditions conducive to human life as we drive to meet the needs of the changing world around us?”

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Fungi: Mike Huibregtse

Life creates conditions conducive to life

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Learning from nature

Nature has been part of human existence for a long time

Paper Wasp Nest: Mike Huibregtse

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INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Source: Alaska Region U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Learning from nature isn’t new

Clayoquot - https://commons.wikimedia.org

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Source: pixabay

Learning from nature isn’t new

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EvgeniT. Pixabay.

Learning from nature isn’t new

sagradafamilia.com

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Source: Velcro.com

Learning from nature isn’t new

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

In 1941, Swiss engineer and inventor George de Mestral was intrigued by the burdock burrs that stuck to his dog’s fur as they passed by the unique plants on a hike.

Let us speak about Velcro to understand the basics of biomimicry further. I really like Velcro because it is a super simple concept to understand and it is a universal product that has led the way for a generation of removable fastening systems. It was discovered while a Swiss engineer – George de Mestral was walking his dog and a cocklebur (a sticky seed) became stuck to his trousers and the fur of his dog. George spent 10 years researching and developing the materials and processes that would become the Velcro that we know today. For me it is interesting to think how many times those seeds would have caught on a dog or on trousers, without anyone noticing and being curious of how it might solve a human problem. I think it represents very well how we have been looking at nature from one point of view and it really has a lot to offer us if we expand that vision. Velcro is inspired by a seed whose dispersal strategy is based on structures to anchor itself to the fur of animals and for them to transport it through the environment. In addition, it seems to me an example that marks the way of what biomimicry can become, because Velcro is an advance that has really penetrated society through its usefulness being present in our daily reality, with infinite uses.

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How does nature…?

Examples of human challenges solved in nature

Paper Wasp Nest: Mike Huibregtse

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INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Theresa Millard

Create color without pigments

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Honey Kochchaphon kaensen

Clean without chemicals

William Thielicke: Computer graphic of a lotus leaf surface

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

The leaves of the lotus flower are self-cleaning. Until the 70’s humans did not understand the mechanism behind the lotus leaf’s cleaning ability. Before the scanning electron microscope allowed detailed microscopic images, general opinion was that a smoother surface would be more effective at shedding dirt and water than a rough surface. In 1975, German botanists were using a scanning electron microscope to view plant surfaces. They discovered how the lotus leaf can emerge from the mud yet unfold clean. The secret is not an extremely smooth surface, but instead a surface with a surprising number of bumps. A lotus leaf actually stays clean by taking advantage of the repelling relationship between the high surface tension of water and the waxy protrusions on the lotus surface.

The surface tension of water means that water tends to form spheres (or drops). The waxy surface of the bumpy lotus leaves provide an unfavorable surface to which a drop of water doesn’t adhere – there is almost no contact between the water and the surface. If the surface is on an incline, the droplet will roll off. If a drop rolls over a particle on the surface, unless the static between the particle and the surface is too great, that particle will stick to the water drop. For a plant, this self-cleaning effect provides protection by washing away pathogens.

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Schokraie E, Warnken U, Hotz-Wagenblatt A, Grohme MA, Hengherr S, et al. (2012)

Survive extremes of temperature

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Inspiration for vaccines that don’t need refrigeration

Tardigrade or water bears survive extreme environmental conditions by entering a reversibly suspended metabolic state known as cryptobiosis.

Most incredible of all, however, is the virtually indestructible nature of tardigrades while they remain in cryptobiosis. In laboratory experiments, cryptobiotic specimens have been chilled in liquid helium to -457°F (-272°C), which is only marginally above absolute zero. They have also been heated to temperatures exceeding 300°F (149°C), exposed to radiation doses far in excess of the lethal dose for humans, immersed in vats of liquid nitrogen, concentrated carbolic acid, hydrogen sulphide, brine, and pure alcohol, and even bombarded by deadly streams of electrons inside an electron microscope. Yet when removed from all of these incredibly hostile environments - which would have proven fatal for any other form of animal life - and moistened with water, these astounding creatures recovered. They simply emerge from their cryptobiotic state, rehydrate themselves, and amble away on their four pairs of stubby claw-tipped legs, completely unharmed. Even today, the physiological mysteries behind the tardigrades' unparalleled powers of endurance during cryptobiosis remain unsolved. (Shuker 2001:113) NOTE: Cambridge Biostability was purchased by Novalabs in May 2009 (Cambridge Biostability no longer exists)

Anhydrobiosis is the process by which organisms such as brine shrimp and tardigrades become almost completely dehydrated, losing up to 95% of their free and stored water and entering a state of suspended animation. They can survive in this state for several decades. To enter this state, the organism creates different proteins and sugars that help protect its cells. They do this by replacing the water with a sugar solution that thickens to a point of solidifying as a glass. Once the organism takes up water again from its surroundings it can re-activate its cells and come back to life.

The vaccine is first spray-dried using sugar syrup to form microscopic glass spheres (VitRIS™ technology). This was inspired by the process anhydrobiotic organisms use to protect themselves during suspended animation. The dry vaccine is then suspended in an inert liquid, which can be injected into muscle where bodily fluids reactivate the vaccine (HydRIS® technology). Since the stable liquid formulations are anhydrous, they are inherently bacteriostatic, as bacteria require water to multiply. Thus the need for antiseptics is eliminated. Sugar beads also prevent the interaction of vaccines prior to injection; therefore, multiple or multivalent vaccines can be developed using this technology and given in the same shot. The sugar can also be adapted to dissolve more slowly, thereby releasing vaccines over time and eliminating the need for boosters.

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FotosLocos

Package

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Jan Michels

Optimize structures

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Case studies

Human solutions inspired by nature

Paper Wasp Nest: Mike Huibregtse

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INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Sharklet Technologies

PIRO4D

Sharklet Hygienic Surface

(20 micron scale)

Sharklet Technologies

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Sharklet

Background

In the marine environment species that move slowly most of the time, such as whale, turtles or manatees, have organisms like algae, barnacles and tube worms attached to their surface; while species that move quickly most of the time, such as orca, dolphin or tuna, remain clean because it takes too much energy for the attaching organisms to attach to and stay on the fast movers. However, several species of shark remain clean despite being slow movers most of the time. The sharkskin pattern creates a barrier to attachment as organisms approach it and sense that there is no place that they can find that will allow for an easy attachment. Sharklet mimics this feature and creates an energetically unstable surface.

Product description

Sharklet SafeTouch™ is a durable film patterned with millions of microscopic Sharklet diamonds that are scientifically proven to help prevent the growth of disease-causing bacteria. The film can be applied anywhere people wish to inhibit germ growth. This film comes in ready-to-place 9x9-inch squares with an adhesive back and is especially suited for high-touch areas including public restroom stall doors, door push panels and hygienic restroom containers.
Sharklet™ Hygienic Surface is a non-toxic, biocide free and environmentally safe film for application to high-touch surfaces in hospitals and healthcare settings. The durable surface inhibits bacterial growth and reduces the transference and survival of bacteria. This film surface is developed for application to membrane switch covers such as patient bedrail controls and patient monitors as well as other high-touch areas.

Application

There are many applications for Sharklet technology including those for healthcare, restaurants, hotels, daycare facilities and many other public areas that are frequently touched and contaminated by germs. Surfaces that are difficult to clean or where bacteria biofilms resist disinfectant should be considered high priorities for Sharklet application. The long-term use of Sharklet can help lower Hospital-Acquired infections (HAIs) incidents and help decrease the massive costs associated with these infections.

Key words: Shark, Pattern, Sharklet Technologies, Hygienic, Surface, Film.

Webpage: https://www.sharklet.com/

Information about the organization

Sharklet Technologies, Inc. is a life sciences company headquartered at the internationally recognized Sid Martin Biotechnology Incubator in Alachua, Florida. Inspired by the microbe resistant properties of shark skin, Sharklet, the company's core technology, is the first non-toxic surface developed to control bacteria including MRSA, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, VRE, Staph a. and a host of other bacteria. The power of Sharklet is in the pattern of its patented surface created from millions of microscopic tiny raised bars arranged in a highly specific diamond pattern. It is the shape and pattern of the surface alone that disrupts bacteria growth, not chemicals or toxicity.

Areas of further development: Medical Devices and Marine Applications.

Case study information summary

What's being mimicked: Shark Skin
Title: Bacterial Growth Inhibiting Film Material Mimics Shark Skin
Product/Process/Policy Resulting: Bacterial Growth Inhibiting Film Surface
Availability: Some products available and in use. Other products in development.
Description: Sharklet™ Hygienic Surface is a non-toxic, biocide free and environmentally safe film for application to high-touch surfaces in hospitals and healthcare settings. The durable surface inhibits bacterial growth and reduces the transference and survival of bacteria.
Source(s): Discovery News, Sharklet Technologies
Article Title(s): Sharks in the Emergency Room
Researcher: Dr. Anthony Brennan professor in the Departments of Materials Science and Engineering and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Florida invented Sharklet™
Lab/University: University of Florida
Research e-mail: abrennan@mse.ufl.edu
Researcher phone: 352-3926281
Additional Information and Files:

Additional Sources

Article: Sharks in the Emergency Room

http://news.discovery.com/tech/interview-sharklet-technologies.html

Sharklet Technologies

http://www.sharklet.com/

Sharklet™ Eco-Safe Hygienic Surface

A breakthrough in bacterial control for healthcare providers

http://www.sharklet.com/_fileCabinet/Sharklet_Hygienic_Surface_for_Healthcare.pdf

Brennan Research Group

http://brennan.mse.ufl.edu/

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Mycoworks

PennState: Institute of Energy and the Environment

MycoWorks

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Mycoworks

Background

MycoWorks harnesses the natural properties of mycelium—the root structure of fungi—to create sustainable, high-performance materials. Inspired by the resilience, flexibility, and durability of fungal networks, the company has developed a proprietary biotechnology that transforms mycelium into a leather-like material. This biofabrication process provides a sustainable alternative to animal leather and synthetic materials, reducing environmental impact and offering new possibilities in material science.

Product description

MycoWorks’ flagship product, Reishi™, is a premium, mycelium-based leather alternative. Reishi™ is customizable in terms of texture, thickness, and finish, making it suitable for high-end fashion, accessories, automotive interiors, and furniture. Unlike synthetic alternatives, it is biodegradable, free from plastics, and created using a closed-loop manufacturing process. The product is praised for its luxurious feel, durability, and minimal carbon footprint.

Application

MycoWorks' mycelium leather is applied in industries seeking sustainable and ethical material solutions:

Fashion: Luxury brands are incorporating Reishi™ into bags, shoes, and apparel.
Automotive: Used for interior upholstery as a sustainable alternative to leather.
Furniture: Applied to chairs, sofas, and other interior design elements.
Accessories: Watch straps, wallets, and other small leather goods.

Key words: Mycelium, Fungi, Biofabrication, Leather Alternative, Sustainable Material, Biomimicry

Webpage: https://www.mycoworks.com/

Information about the organization

Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Emeryville, California, MycoWorks is a biotechnology company that specializes in mycelium-based materials. The company was founded by Philip Ross, a mycologist and artist, along with Sophia Wang, with the vision of creating materials that are both high-performance and sustainable. MycoWorks has secured partnerships with luxury brands and investors who support the shift toward biofabricated materials.

Areas of further development

Expanding production scalability to meet growing demand.
Developing new textures and finishes for broader industry adoption.
Exploring applications in aerospace and industrial design.

Case study information summary

What's being mimicked: Mycelium Growth Patterns
Title: Biofabricated Leather Alternative from Mycelium
Product/Process/Policy Resulting: Reishi™ – Mycelium-Based Leather
Availability: Commercially available, with growing industry adoption.
Description: MycoWorks’ Reishi™ offers a biodegradable, high-performance alternative to leather, catering to luxury and sustainable design industries.
Source(s): MycoWorks official website, industry news reports.
Article Title(s): "MycoWorks' Reishi™: The Future of Sustainable Luxury"
Researcher: Philip Ross & Sophia Wang
Lab/University: Independent Research & Development
Research e-mail: info@mycoworks.com

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Soliome

AskNature

Soliome

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Soliome

Background

The global sunscreen market, valued at $18 billion, is dominated by chemical filters that pose significant environmental and health risks. Common ingredients like oxybenzone contribute to coral bleaching and water contamination, while some UV filters have been found in human blood and breast milk, raising concerns about hormone disruption. Mineral sunscreens, though considered safer, can still produce harmful byproducts that stress marine ecosystems. In search of a sustainable alternative, Soliome developed a bioinspired, biodegradable sunscreen that mimics kynurenines—natural UV-protective compounds found in human eyes—offering effective sun protection without harming aquatic life.

Product description

Soliome's bioinspired sunscreen utilizes a naturally derived polymer based on the UV-absorbing properties of Kynurenines. The product is:

Non-toxic: Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, and other harmful chemicals.
Biodegradable: Designed to break down safely in the environment, minimizing ecological impact.
Lightweight & Transparent: Unlike mineral sunscreens that can leave a white residue, Soliome’s formula is clear and smooth.
Long-lasting UV Protection: Effectively absorbs UVA and UVB radiation, providing broad-spectrum defense.

Application

Soliome’s sunscreen is ideal for:

Personal Skincare: Everyday sun protection without toxic chemicals.
Marine Conservation: Safe for use by divers, snorkelers, and beachgoers concerned about reef health.
Outdoor & Sports Use: Water-resistant and sweat-proof for active lifestyles.

Key words: Sunscreen, Biodegradable, UV Protection, Biomimicry, Marine Safe, Sustainable Skincare

Webpage: https://www.soliome.com/

Information about the organization

Soliome is a biotechnology-driven company dedicated to revolutionizing sun protection through sustainable innovation. Founded by researchers specializing in bioinspired materials and polymer chemistry, the company aims to replace harmful chemical sunscreens with eco-friendly alternatives. Headquartered in the United States, Soliome collaborates with environmental scientists and dermatologists to develop solutions that prioritize both human health and ecological well-being.

Areas of further development

Expanding formulations for different skin types and sensitivities.
Enhancing water resistance while maintaining biodegradability.
Developing bioinspired materials for other personal care applications.

Case study information summary

What's being mimicked: Natural UV-absorbing biomolecules.
Title: Bioinspired, Biodegradable Sunscreen for Sustainable UV Protection.
Product/Process/Policy Resulting: A non-toxic, eco-friendly sunscreen alternative.
Availability: Commercially available with growing distribution.
Description: Soliome’s sunscreen offers broad-spectrum UV protection without harmful chemicals, designed to protect human skin while preserving marine ecosystems.
Source(s): Soliome official website, dermatology and environmental research reports.
Article Title(s): "Sustainable Sun Protection: How Soliome is Changing the Industry"
Researcher: Soliome's founding team (specific researchers not publicly listed).
Lab/University: Independent Research & Development.
Research e-mail: info@soliome.com
Researcher phone: Not publicly available.
Additional Information and Files: Available upon request from Soliome’s official website.

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Sparxell

Derkarts

Sparxell

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Sparxell

Background

The vibrant colors found in nature, such as those seen in butterfly wings, peacock feathers, and beetle shells, often arise not from pigments but from structural coloration—a phenomenon where microscopic surface structures manipulate light to produce brilliant hues. Unlike synthetic dyes and pigments, which can be toxic and fade over time, structural colors are more sustainable and durable. Sparxell leverages this principle to create bioinspired, non-toxic, and biodegradable colorants as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional pigments and dyes used in cosmetics, textiles, and packaging.

Product description

Sparxell’s structurally colored pigments are made from plant-derived cellulose, the most abundant biopolymer on Earth. These pigments offer:

Vivid, long-lasting colors: Created by microscopic structures rather than chemical dyes.
Biodegradability: Naturally derived and environmentally safe, eliminating microplastic pollution.
Non-toxic and safe for human use: Free from heavy metals and synthetic chemicals.
Customizable properties: Tunable colors and effects for various applications.

Application

Sparxell’s pigments and coatings have a wide range of applications:

Cosmetics: Used in makeup, skincare, and personal care products for natural, vibrant hues.
Fashion & Textiles: Provides sustainable colorants for clothing and fabrics.
Packaging & Printing: Eco-friendly, biodegradable alternatives to synthetic pigments in inks and coatings.
Consumer Goods: Applied in toys, paints, and household items to reduce reliance on petroleum-based colorants.

Key words: Structural Color, Biomimicry, Cellulose, Sustainable Pigments, Bioinspired Materials, Non-Toxic Dyes

Webpage: https://www.sparxell.com/

Information about the organization

Sparxell is a UK-based startup pioneering sustainable coloration technology inspired by nature. Founded by experts in materials science and biomimicry, the company aims to revolutionize the global pigment and dye industry by eliminating synthetic colorants that contribute to pollution and environmental degradation. Sparxell’s mission is to provide aesthetic, high-performance, and eco-friendly alternatives for a variety of industries, aligning with circular economy principles.

Areas of further development

Scaling up production for broader industry adoption.
Expanding color customization for different applications.
Developing structurally colored coatings for industrial and automotive use.

Case study information summary

What's being mimicked: Structural coloration in butterfly wings, peacock feathers, and beetle shells.
Title: Bioinspired Structural Color Pigments from Plant-Based Cellulose.
Product/Process/Policy Resulting: Non-toxic, biodegradable structural color pigments.
Availability: Available for commercial use, with ongoing research for new applications.
Description: Sparxell develops high-performance, bioinspired colorants that replace synthetic dyes and pigments, offering a sustainable solution for multiple industries.
Source(s): Sparxell official website, biomaterials research papers.
Article Title(s): "How Sparxell is Changing the Future of Sustainable Color."
Researcher: Sparxell’s founding team (specific names not publicly listed).
Lab/University: Independent Research & Development.
Research e-mail: info@sparxell.com
Researcher phone: Not publicly available.
Additional Information and Files: Available upon request from Sparxell’s official website.

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Fusion Bionics

PIRO4D

FusionBionic

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Fusion Bionic

Background

Nature has evolved highly functional surface structures that provide remarkable properties, such as self-cleaning, anti-icing, reduced friction, and enhanced adhesion. Examples include the lotus leaf, which repels water due to its micro- and nanoscale structures, and shark skin, which reduces drag and prevents biofouling. Inspired by these natural surfaces, Fusion Bionics utilizes advanced laser surface structuring to create biomimetic textures that improve the performance of materials across various industries.

Product description

Fusion Bionics specializes in high-precision laser texturing, which replicates nature’s functional surface structures onto metal, glass, and polymer materials. Their technology offers:

Superhydrophobic & self-cleaning surfaces: Inspired by the lotus effect.
Anti-icing properties: Reducing ice adhesion for aerospace and wind energy applications.
Friction reduction & wear resistance: Enhancing efficiency in machinery and medical implants.
Lightweight anti-reflective surfaces: Improving optical efficiency in lenses and sensors.
Biocompatible textures: Supporting improved cell adhesion in medical applications.

Application

Fusion Bionics' laser-textured surfaces have diverse industrial applications, including:

Aerospace & Automotive: Drag reduction, ice prevention, and material durability.
Medical Devices: Surface modifications for implants and prosthetics.
Energy Sector: Anti-icing coatings for wind turbines and solar panels.
Optics & Sensors: Anti-reflective and light-controlling surfaces.
Manufacturing & Engineering: Improving friction, adhesion, and durability of materials.

Key words: Laser Surface Structuring, Biomimicry, Functional Surfaces, Self-Cleaning, Anti-Icing, Drag Reduction, Medical Implants

Webpage: https://www.fusion-bionics.com/

Information about the organization

Fusion Bionics is a German-based company pioneering laser-based surface texturing inspired by nature. By applying advanced laser structuring technology, the company enables manufacturers to integrate functional surface properties into their materials without the need for coatings or chemical treatments. Their mission is to develop sustainable, durable, and high-performance surfaces that enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact across multiple industries.

Areas of further development

Scaling up laser surface structuring for large-scale industrial applications.
Expanding applications in medical implants and biosensors.
Developing next-generation anti-fouling surfaces for marine and healthcare sectors

Case study information summary

What's being mimicked: Lotus leaf (self-cleaning), shark skin (drag reduction), and other natural surfaces.
Title: Laser-Structured Functional Surfaces Inspired by Nature.
Product/Process/Policy Resulting: High-precision laser texturing for self-cleaning, anti-icing, and friction reduction.
Availability: Available for commercial applications, with ongoing research.
Description: Fusion Bionics' laser structuring technology allows manufacturers to replicate nature-inspired surface properties, improving material performance without additional coatings.
Source(s): Fusion Bionics official website, biomaterials and laser technology research.
Article Title(s): "Nature-Inspired Surface Engineering: The Role of Laser Structuring in Advanced Manufacturing."
Researcher: Fusion Bionics’ R&D team (specific names not publicly listed).
Lab/University: Independent Research & Development.
Research e-mail: info@fusion-bionics.com
Researcher phone: Not publicly available.
Additional Information and Files: Available upon request from Fusion Bionics’ official website.

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Lux Bio

Britannica

Lux Bio

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

LuxBio

Background

Traditional chemical glow sticks, widely used in various industries, pose environmental challenges due to their single-use plastic components and toxic chemicals. Recognizing the need for sustainable alternatives, Lux Bio has developed innovative, biodegradable glow sticks powered by bioluminescent enzymes, offering an eco-friendly solution inspired by nature.

Product Description

Lux Bio's flagship product, the Lume, is a biodegradable glow stick designed to meet NATO lumen standards. Key features include:

Non-Toxic and Biodegradable: Constructed with safe materials that are both non-toxic and environmentally friendly.
Water-Activated: The Lume is activated by bending the casing to break an inner ampoule, releasing water that initiates the bioluminescent reaction.
Long-Lasting Illumination: Provides bright yellow light for over 6 hours, with visibility lasting up to 24 hours.
Compostable: Designed to be home compostable, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Application

The Lume glow sticks are suitable for a variety of applications, including:

Outdoor Activities: Ideal for camping, hiking, and fishing, providing reliable illumination without environmental harm.
Emergency Situations: Useful in disaster preparedness and emergency response, offering a safe light source when needed.
Events and Entertainment: Perfect for concerts, festivals, and parties, enhancing ambiance while reducing waste.
Government and Military: Meets standards for tactical operations and public safety applications.

Key Words: Bioluminescence, Sustainable Lighting, Biodegradable Glow Stick, Eco-Friendly Illumination, Non-Toxic Light Source

Webpage: https://www.luxbio.ca/

Information about the Organization

Lux Bio is a Vancouver-based company specializing in sustainable bioluminescent technology. Their mission is to replace traditional chemiluminescent products with eco-friendly alternatives, reducing environmental impact and promoting safety. The company has been recognized as a leader in biomimicry innovation.

Areas of Further Development

Marine Safety: Developing bioluminescent sea dye markers to enhance visibility for individuals lost at sea.
Product Expansion: Exploring additional applications for bioluminescent technology across various industries.
Sustainability Initiatives: Continuing to innovate in biodegradable materials and eco-friendly designs.

Case Study Information Summary

What's Being Mimicked: Bioluminescent organisms such as fireflies.
Title: Biodegradable Glow Sticks Inspired by Nature.
Product/Process/Policy Resulting: Development of the Lume, a compostable, non-toxic glow stick.
Availability: Products are available for purchase through Lux Bio's website.
Description: Lux Bio's Lume provides a sustainable alternative to traditional glow sticks, utilizing bioluminescent enzymes to produce light without harmful chemicals.
Source(s): Lux Bio Official Website
Researcher: Paige Whitehead, Co-Founder & CEO.
Lab/University: Independent research and development by Lux Bio.
Research E-mail: hello@luxbio.ca
Researcher Phone: Not publicly available.
Additional Information and Files: Further details can be found on Lux Bio's official website and blog.

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Velcro

Orillia Matters

Velcro

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

Velcro

Background

The inspiration for Velcro came from nature, specifically burdock burrs—small, spiky seed pods that cling to animal fur and clothing. In 1941, Swiss engineer George de Mestral observed how these burrs had tiny hooks that latched onto loops of fabric and fur. This discovery led him to develop a hook-and-loop fastening system, mimicking the burr’s natural attachment mechanism. Over time, Velcro became a revolutionary product in textiles, aerospace, healthcare, and many other industries.

Product description

Velcro’s hook-and-loop fasteners consist of:

Two strips of fabric: One with tiny hooks and the other with soft loops.
When pressed together, the hooks catch onto the loops, creating a strong yet easily detachable bond.
Made from nylon or polyester, the fasteners are durable, reusable, and widely adaptable.
Available in various sizes, strengths, and configurations to suit industrial, medical, and consumer applications.

Application

Velcro is used in a wide range of industries, including:

Fashion & Textiles: Shoes, jackets, bags, and sportswear.
Medical & Healthcare: Adjustable bandages, prosthetics, and patient restraints.
Aerospace & Military: Securing tools and equipment in zero-gravity environments.
Automotive & Transportation: Cable management, seat adjustments, and interior fixtures.
Home & Office: Cable organizers, furniture fasteners, and DIY applications.

Key words: Burdock Burr, Hook-and-Loop, Fastener, Textile Innovation, Biomimicry, Adhesive-Free Attachment

Webpage: https://www.velcro.com/

Information about the organization

Velcro Companies is a global leader in hook-and-loop fastening solutions, with headquarters in Manchester, New Hampshire, USA. The company has a strong focus on innovation, holding over 400 patents worldwide. Since its inception, Velcro has expanded its product line, serving industries from consumer goods to aerospace. Their mission is to develop smart fastening solutions that enhance convenience, performance, and sustainability.

Areas of further development

Development of biodegradable or recyclable hook-and-loop fasteners.
Expanding high-strength and fire-resistant fastener applications.
Innovations in medical and wearable technology.
Exploring nano-scale fastening systems for future materials.

Case study information summary

What's being mimicked: Burdock burr’s hook-and-loop attachment system.
Title: Nature-Inspired Adhesive-Free Fastening Technology.
Product/Process/Policy Resulting: Hook-and-loop fasteners for multiple industries.
Availability: Commercially available worldwide.
Description: Velcro provides strong yet detachable fastening solutions, inspired by nature’s simple yet effective mechanisms.
Source(s): Velcro official website, biomimicry research studies.
Article Title(s): "How Nature Inspired the Velcro Revolution."
Researcher: George de Mestral (Inventor of Velcro, 1941).
Lab/University: Independent research.
Research e-mail: info@velcro.com (Verify exact contact info if needed)
Researcher phone: Not publicly available.
Additional Information and Files: Available upon request from Velcro Companies’ official website.

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Useful resources

What might you do next?

Paper Wasp Nest: Mike Huibregtse

5

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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Useful resources

Research resources are diverse and can feel either overwhelming or non-existent. Don’t Panic.

Innovation Inspired by Nature — AskNature (Managed by Biomimicry Institute)
Sharing Nature's Genius (sharingnaturesgenius.com (Managed by a team of Certified Biomimicry Professionals)
Wikipedia
Google Scholar / Google Searches
ChatGPT / Microsoft Co-Pilot / Perplexity (for academic references)
Science media such as: Phys.org - News and Articles on Science and Technology and ScienceAlert : The Best in Science News And Amazing Breakthroughs

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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What would nature do here?

Butterfly wing: Mike Huibregtse

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What would nature never do?

Emily Vanderheyden

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Questions and closing

Discussion

Paper Wasp Nest: Mike Huibregtse

6

INTRODUCTION TO BIOMIMICRY

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THANK YOU

The project Biomimicry Changemakers Framework - BCF has received funding from the European Commision under the Erasmus + Programme, Action Type KA210-ADU - Small-scale partnerships in adult education, no. 2023-1-ES01-KA210-ADU-0001655552