Innovation often finds inspiration in the most unexpected places. Take, for example, an underwater spider, theArgyroneta aquatica. It has no gills, yet it lives underwater. How does? What is her secret? A series of hairs that trap air in a thin layer, called Plastron, which allows them to breathe. This phenomenon lit a light bulb in the minds of Harvard researchers, leading to the creation of an incredible hydrophobic surface.
The hunt for the perfect surface
The desire to replicate the plastron in the laboratory is not only a scientific challenge, but has enormous practical implications. Imagine underwater surfaces that can resist corrosion, prevent bacterial growth and repel marine organisms such as mussels and barnacles. But, as often happens in science, replicating nature is no easy task. Previous attempts have seen artificial plastrons last only a few hours underwater.
Until today, at least. Yes, because when brilliant minds come together, the possibilities are endless. A team of researchers from Harvardand Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg in Germany andAalto University in Finland made a revolutionary discovery, developing a super hydrophobic surface with a stable plastron that can last months underwater.
Hydrophobic, or rather more so
The potential applications of this new surface are vast, from biomedicine to industry. Not only does it repel water, but it has also been shown to repel blood and dramatically reduce the adhesion of organisms such as mussels and barnacles. Joanna Aizenberg, co-author of the study (that I link to you here), is certain: the next developments will allow the advent of new materials with properties never seen before.
Clearly, research continues to further improve the stability and effectiveness of these surfaces. One thing is certain, however: nature will continue to inspire us, guiding us towards innovations that can transform our world.
