| Abstract Scope |
Natural systems have evolved efficient strategies to synthesize and construct composites via controlled synthesis and hierarchical assembly of nano- to micro-scaled building blocks, guided by organic scaffolds, which precisely guide the formation and phase development of minerals.
Here, we investigate organisms that have taken advantage of hundreds of millions of years of evolutionary changes to derive ceramic-based structures, which are not only strong and tough, but also demonstrate impact or abrasion resistance. We discuss the nucleation and growth of protein templated minerals with controlled metastability and, in some cases, subsequent phase transformations to more stable phases. At the same time, we discuss how the templating controls crystallinity and mineral architecture, which in combination with the organic phases, leads to extremely mechanically robust materials.
From the investigation of synthesis-structure-property relationships in many of these unique organisms, we are now developing and fabricating bio-inspired engineered materials for multifunctional applications. |