Biomimicry is the “study and imitation of nature’s remarkably efficient designs, bringing together scientists, engineers, architects and innovators who can use those models to create sustainable technologies” (Biomimicry Institute).
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Recent innovations demonstrate ways biomimicry is helping to make homes and businesses healthier.
Blue Mussels and Healthier Plywood
According to the AskNature.org website, “Columbia Forest Products learned about natural adhesives from the blue mussel. This ocean species attaches itself firmly to underwater structures without use of toxic chemicals. Columbia's PureBond® is a soy-based formaldehyde-free technology used in the construction of hardwood plywood products.”
The replacement of formaldehyde-free glues enables creating plywood that does not contain and outgas formaldehyde. For more information, visit:
http://www.asknature.org/product/22aa5601fcdb68b5d2dc9e3d3a22f7f1
http://www.asknature.org/strategy/1052eed7fd56c4933871c04b65b1cafb
http://www.columbiaforestproducts.com/PureBond.aspx
Sharkskins and Hygienic Surfaces
Sharkskin has a remarkable microscopic texture that repels bacteria without chemicals. It does this through a pattern that prevents bacteria from sticking to the surface and growing.
Sharklet Technologies is a biotech company that has imitated the microbial-resistant properties of sharkskin to develop surface technologies that inhibit microbe growth. They have produced “the world’s first micro-pattern developed to control bacteria including Staph a., MRSA, VRE, E. coli and a host of others.” Sharklet™ is suited for commercial, healthcare, food service and laboratory environments where bacterial control is important to protect human health.
For example, when the Sharklet material is used on healthcare surfaces:
• Bacteria find it difficult to attach
• Bacteria that do attach do not survive
• Bacteria are less likely to transfer from the synthetic micro-pattern to hands.
Tactivex™ - one application of Sharklet technology - is a “bacteria inhibiting film that may be applied as a protective skin to high-touch surfaces or integrated with products to reduce the survival and spread of bacteria.”
For more information:
http://www.sharklet.com/sharklet-products/
http://www.lgintl.com/tactivex-bacteria-inhibiting-film.shtml
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