How sea stars build materials that can see
14 hours ago
- #optical sensing
- #bioinspiration
- #biomaterials
- Engineers studying sea star skeletons discovered light-guiding structures embedded in the arms, combining mechanical support with optical sensing.
- The lens-like structures, made of calcium carbonate, transmit and focus light, suggesting evolution of multifunctional materials in nature.
- Sea stars achieve strength and lightness through porous architectures with smooth transitions, avoiding brittleness typical of ceramics.
- This biological design could inspire engineered materials that integrate sensing without compromising structural performance, such as in protective panels or aerospace components.
- The research highlights the potential for bioinspired materials to be manufactured sustainably, using less energy than industrial processes.