Advances in Bio-inspired Tribology for Engineering Applications

Abstract

Bio-inspired tribology is an interdisciplinary field of science where scientists and engineers seek to investigate and incorporate tribological properties encountered in biological beings into engineering applications. In this paper, bio-inspired tribological research that are speculated to have a huge impact on tribological applications have been reviewed. These research involve (1) investigations related to replication of lubricin found in synovial fluids of mammalian joints which have super-low friction values that can be utilized in IC engines, (2) surface replication concerning to superhydrophobic properties of gecko skin which is seen to have anti-wetting and selfcleaning properties, (3) friction-reducing shark skin through specialized nanoparticle coatings that is seen to give a different perspective on surface texturing, (4) new techniques, such as soft lithography to replicate surfaces of lotus leaf and air lubrication phenomenon inspired by emperor penguins that is being applied to propel boats, ships, and torpedoes faster by reducing skin friction underwater. Further, an investigation in self-healing materials inspired from pitcher plant that has led to the innovation of self-healing and slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces has been discussed. These research works reviewed not only provide a deep insight into the current advances in bio-inspired tribology but also helps understand the plausibility of the research applications in the future and the practicality of innovations possible.

Biomimetics Design for Tribological Applications

“…The term biomimetics in the context of science was first introduced by Otto Schmitt in 1969 [4]. The term Biomimetics is derived from bios, meaning life, and mimesis, meaning to imitate [5]. The term biomimicry is also used in the literature, as a synonym for the term biomimetics.…”

Biomimetic Designs for Automobile Engineering: A Review

“…For the most part, lubricants that are currently being used for automobile tribology are oil-based and rely on chemical additives. The primary uses of lubricants are wear reduction, friction optimisation, heat removal, carrying away impurities, and wear debris [12]. Although these requirements are fulfilled by the boundary lubrication with oils, the reactions that occur as a result can cause negative effects.…”

“…As per the current research trend, biomimetic lubricants can be considered as the future of tribology. Recently, human synovial lubrication has been considered as one of the most plausible inspirations for biomimicry in lubrication technology [12]. The main reason for this is the remarkable life span of human lubrication.…”

“…Yet, in recent times, few publications have been identified that discussed some specific applications of biomimicry in automobile-related areas. These include reviews on tribology [12], topology optimisation of mechanical designs [13], and aerodynamics [4]. journal.ump.edu.my/ijame ◄ This paper briefs the state of the art research and developments that incorporate biomimicry into automobile design.…”

Advances in Tribology of Lubricin and Lubricin-Like Synthetic Polymer Nanostructures

“…Nature has been designing lubricants and adhesives for millions of years. Scientists are now capable of gathering information about biological surfaces in relative motion, their friction, adhesion, lubrication, and wear and have been able to relate this knowledge to technological applications and to the development of new-generation lubricants [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]. Miniaturization of many technological devices (i.e., data storage and management components) that we use today requires a fundamental understanding of tribological phenomena at the micro-and nano-metric scales.…”