Insects have evolved diverse materials to thrive in various environments, and researchers are borrowing from these natural innovations to solve problems like antibiotic resistance and unsustainable packaging. Biomimicry, which focuses on structure rather than molecules, can lead to sustainable and functional materials. The cicada’s antimicrobial wings, for example, can inspire self-cleaning surfaces that remove bacteria without using harsh chemicals. Another example is Shrilk, a biodegradable bioplastic made from chitosan and silk proteins, which is strong yet lightweight and rapidly biodegradable.
Biomimicry offers a promising approach to material design, as it allows for the creation of materials with enhanced properties without altering the molecules. This approach is important for achieving both functional and sustainable materials. The Wyss Institute’s work on Shrilk demonstrates the effectiveness of this methodology, which can be used to create materials with new properties by altering their structure at the microscopic and nanoscales. The insect exoskeleton, in particular, has inspired researchers to develop new materials with unique properties, such as strength and lightness.