

Tapping Into Nature
The Future of Energy, Innovation, and Business
In this paper, Terrapin explores nine cross-sector topics and selects natural strategies related to each. The biological strategies represent only a fraction of the designs found in nature. Each section then presents bioinspired products—some of which are Terrapin collaborations—that have been developed by companies using these strategies. All told, this set of strategies and products begins to convey the breadth of innovation in the natural world.
The infographic “Market Readiness of Bioinspired Innovations” showcases over 100 examples of bioinspired technologies, ranging from early concepts to profitable commercial products. The broader economic and environmental potential of this rapidly growing field is detailed in “Bioinspired Innovation: An Economic Engine.” By tracing the path from biology to commercialized technologies, we hope to inspire you to tap into nature at your organization.


“I’m not trying to imitate nature;
I’m trying to find the principles she’s using.”
R. Buckminster Fuller, 1972
(Buckminster Fuller to Children of Earth)Notes
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, or NYSERDA, for sponsoring this document. We owe Miriam Pye and Dana Levy a large debt of gratitude for championing this work. The authors would also like to thank the Review Committee for their valuable contributions and the Affari Project for developing the online version of this document. Additionally, we are grateful to Joe Coussan and Natalie Mault Mead for their editorial assistance. The opinions and conclusions in this report are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of NYSERDA, the reviewers, or editors.
Co-AuthorsCas Smith Terrapin Bright Green
Allison Bernett Terrapin Bright Green
Eleanor Sadik-Khan Terrapin Bright Green
Erika Hanson Terrapin Bright Green
Chris Garvin Managing Partner, Terrapin Bright Green
Review CommitteeNathaniel Cady Associate Professor, SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Mark Dorfman Biomimicry 3.8
Jamie Dwyer Biomimicry 3.8
Paolo Gaudiano CEO, Infomous, Inc.
Jay Harman CEO, PAX Scientific
Tim Hoffman Managing Director, Watts Capital/NYSERDA EIR
Mathias Kolle Assistant Professor, MIT
Sandra Meier Senior Project Manager, NYSERDA
Pat Sapinsley CEO, Watt Not LLC/Build Efficiently LLC
Abraham Stroock Associate Professor, Cornell University
Jiandi Wan Assistant Professor, RIT
ContributorsCathy Gallagher Fermanian Business & Economic Insitute
Dieter Mauerman Fermanian Business & Economic Insitute
Lynn Reaser Fermanian Business & Economic Insitute
William Browning Terrapin Bright Green
Catie Ryan Terrapin Bright Green
Chris Starkey Terrapin Bright Green
Jonce Walker Terrapin Bright Green
Introduction
Nearly all living things rely on diffuse and transient flows of energy and materials. And yet, life thrives. Organisms are able to procure materials and assemble themselves—essentially constructing “technologies”—using only the resources that are locally available.
Increasingly, innovative companies are looking to the living world for inspiration and direction. Nature provides a rich yet largely unexplored library of technologies that process and manage information, materials, and energy.1 Abstracting ideas from this catalogue opens the way to technological breakthroughs and profitable innovation that are often unattainable using conventional approaches to product design and development.
“Bioinspired innovation,” a term used throughout this paper, encompasses two distinct categories. One of them, bioutilization, is the use of organisms or biological materials to fulfill a human need. The other, biomimicry, is the abstraction and translation of biological principles into human-made technology; it is also a method of assessing whether a design concept is likely to “create conditions conducive to life.”2 The terms are related yet distinct. Either approach can be implemented in a way that benefits society and the environment.

Copyright: Umberto Salvagnin / Flickr
Blueprints for Innovation
Life can be thought of as a long-running research and development program that has yielded invaluable design ideas. Long before human beings began tinkering in labs, organisms had developed carbon capture and sequestration systems, water harvesting techniques, water transport systems, adhesives, colorfast materials, electronic circuits, distributed energy conversion systems, color displays, light absorbers, insulation, thermal dissipators, and information storage, along with countless other designs. All of these are blueprints for technologies that are not only useful to society but are also integral to the global economy. Companies that learn from nature are increasing revenues, mitigating risk, reducing costs, and supporting the development of a sustainable society.
To understand how the biological world works—how it builds material, creates form, and constructs intricate systems—is to understand the inherent physical constraints of our planet. Organisms have operated within these rules for nearly 4 billion years, and human technology operates using the same rulebook.3 Through bioinspired innovation, companies can not only discover design ideas in nature but also emulate nature by embedding sustainability into the development of new products and processes. By doing so, businesses can begin to see environmental challenges such as climate change as opportunities rather than economic risks.
Accelerating Innovation
A flurry of innovation occurred in the twentieth century that had a positive, transformative effect on economies and societies.4 Today, however, many companies and private investors develop and invest in “widgets [and] irrelevances” that neither produce healthy returns nor address pressing societal needs.5 To develop the world-changing and profitable innovations of tomorrow, companies and investors need new sources of ideas.
Harvard Business School’s Dr. Rosabeth Moss Kanter recently said that before innovation proves successful, it is merely “somebody’s wild idea that competes with every other wild idea.”6 Indeed, technological innovation is an exercise in risk. Many businesses attempt to innovate by reformulating their existing products or emulating a competitor’s product. However, these avenues often only provide incremental value to both businesses and society, not transformative breakthroughs.
Creating an entirely new product category that alters or creates markets (so-called “disruptive innovation”) requires insightful strategy, serendipity, or both. Bioinspired innovation offers a real opportunity for companies to create products and processes inspired by proven designs: the attributes of organisms that perpetuate in nature because they solve particular challenges.
Companies that leverage bioinspired innovation can increase revenues, reduce costs, and meet global needs. They can also increase their environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) rating, attracting investments from the $45 trillion managed by firms supporting this trend in financial markets.7,8 By looking outside the bounds of their traditional disciplines, companies are able to transform markets and increase returns.

Copyright: USFWS Pacific Region / Flickr
The sequestration of carbon by corals inspired Blue Planet’s cement additives made from waste CO2 streams (see Carbon).
Why Bioinspired Innovation?
At Terrapin, we believe that natural systems offer solutions to industrial challenges. We believe that bioinspired innovation transforms businesses and industries, improves quality of life, and enhances the natural environment. This paper is a product of our experience developing bioinspired technologies and a testament to the potential we see in a bioinspired approach to research and development.
Terrapin works with companies, academic researchers, and governmental organizations to transition biologically-inspired technology into the market. Among our services, we:
- introduce clients to the bioinspired innovation design process through
presentations, case studies, and workshops, - use workshops to explore and identify our client’s technology challenges,
- align client challenges to potential solutions found in nature,
- guide clients from ideation into experimental design,
- connect clients with our network of researchers to design, build, and
test potential solutions, - develop roadmaps to explore technology challenges and identify hidden
business opportunities, and - offer extended engagements to integrate the bioinspired innovation
design process into a client’s R&D culture.
Market Readiness of Bioinspired Technologies
The infographic below displays select bioinspired technologies, ranging from early concepts to fully commercialized products. These innovations are sorted according to the paper’s cross-sector topics and connected to the various industries they influence. While many innovations are already commercially available, many more are in development and have the potential to create or disrupt markets. Several of Terrapin’s collaborations are indicated by hexagons..
Market Readiness of Bioinspired Innovations
Topics
Tap to OpenCarbon
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Protein-Mediated Calcite Ceramics
Protein-Mediated Calcite Ceramics
Dr. Colin Freeman, University of Sheffield
Some organisms control calcite deposition to build complex structures like eggs–a process that could inspire precise ceramic manufacturing techniques.P1
Advanced Materials Arts & Entertainment Cement & Concrete -
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Dr. Peter Dinolfo
Terrapin assisted Dr. Dinolfo at RPI in securing funds for research that evaluates the rate and efficacy of an inexpensive catalyst. The catalyst mimics the water-splitting complex in plants and is used in artificial photosynthetic devices, zinc-air batteries, and other oxidation-dependent systems.P2
Chemical Manufacturing Oil & Gas Optics & Imaging Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Transportation Utilities -
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Dr. Jiandi Wan, RIT
Dr. Wan at RIT is developing a leaf-mimicking microfluidic device to convert CO2 into valuable chemical products like methane and methanol. Terrapin helped secure funding for this project.P3
Chemical Manufacturing Oil & Gas Optics & Imaging Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Transportation Utilities -
Photosynthetic Foam
Photosynthetic Foam
Dr. David Wendell, University of Cincinnati
Inspired by the tungara frog, which produces long-lasting foam nests, engineers at the University of Cincinnati developed a stable foam from one of the frog’s proteins and combined it with photosynthetic enzymes that convert CO2 to sugars and oxygen.P4
Advanced Materials Oil & Gas Power Generation, Distribution & Storage
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Enzymatic Toxin Remediation
Enzymatic Toxin Remediation
Dr. Jim Spain, Georgia Tech
Scientists at Georgia Tech patented the use of biological enzymes that break down harmful carbon compounds into valuable chemicals.P5
Biotechnology Chemical Manufacturing Waste Management
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Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Ltd.
California-based Blue Planet synthesizes cement additives and other green building materials from waste carbon flue streams to make carbon-negative concrete. Terrapin is working with Blue Planet to identify potential demonstration sites in New York State.P6
Building Construction Cement & Concrete Chemical Manufacturing Mining Paints & Adhesives -
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Using waste methane as a feedstock, Mango Materials grows bacteria that naturally produce a biopolymer. This economically competitive material can be used to create biodegradable plastic as well as conventional products like electronic casings, bottles, and children’s toys.P105
Advanced Materials Biotechnology Chemical Manufacturing Oil & Gas Plastic Products Waste Management
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BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Products
Headquartered in California, BioWorld sells mixes of specialized bacteria that break down hydrocarbons into less harmful chemicals. These products are authorized by the EPA for use on oil spills.P7
Biotechnology Oil & Gas Waste Management Water Treatment -
Converge® Polyols
Converge® Polyols
Novomer
Novomer took inspiration from photosynthetic organisms and developed a process that sequesters carbon by converting waste CO2 and CO into useful chemical polymers.P8 Currently, Ford is developing foams and plastics for its vehicles using the technology.P111
Chemical Manufacturing Household Goods Oil & Gas Plastic Products
Water
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Cactus-Inspired Fog Harvesting
Cactus-Inspired Fog Harvesting
Dr. Jie Ju & Dr. Hao Bai, Chinese Academy of Sciences
The spines of the cactus Opuntia microdasys have specialized structures that can collect and funnel fog droplets into its base, prompting interest in fog harvesting devices that mimic the spines’ structures.P96
Agriculture Water Treatment
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Passive Fluid Transport
Passive Fluid Transport
Dr. Philip Comanns; Aachen University
With potential applications in fields such as microfluidics, medical applications, and distilleries, this process of passively transporting fluid through interconnecting capillaries on a material’s surface mimics the water retrieving process of Texas horned lizards’ skin.P104
Advanced Materials Agriculture Building Systems Food Manufacturing Glass Products HVAC & Refrigeration Utilities -
Termite Humidity Damping Device
Termite Humidity Damping Device
Terrapin Bright Green; Dr. Rupert Soar, Freeform Construction Ltd.; Dr. Scott Turner, SUNY-ESF
In collaboration with Terrapin Bright Green, Dr. Rupert Soar and Dr. Scott Turner are developing a passive humidity damping device based on the fungal combs in termite mounds. The device will stabilize humidity in building spaces, reducing a building’s energy demands.P97
Building Systems HVAC & Refrigeration
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NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nanotechnologies, Inc.
NBD Nano is developing a novel hydrophobic coating inspired by the Namibian Desert Beetle’s shell. This coating for condensing tubes in power plants increases heat transfer rate by 200%, and has applications in other industrial processes, thermal desalination, and fog harvesting. NBD Nano is moving into large scale pilot testing.P40
Advanced Materials Agriculture HVAC & Refrigeration Industrial Machinery Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Water Treatment -
Seawater Greenhouse
Seawater Greenhouse
Seawater Greenhouses Ltd. and Sundrop Farms Pty. Ltd.
Inspired by the way the Namib beetle collects water from fog, Seawater Greenhouses use cold seawater, air movement and solar radiation to condense and collect fresh water for crops.P99
Agriculture Chemical Manufacturing Water Treatment -
Fog Harvesting Mesh
Fog Harvesting Mesh
MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile
Researchers at MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile have designed specialized fog mesh nets that condense and capture 10% of the water in fog, a strategy inspired by how some Chilean organisms collect water from fog.P98
Agriculture Food Manufacturing Water Treatment
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Aquaporin Inside™
Aquaporin Inside™
Aquaporin A/S
Aquaporin A/S is pilot testing a membrane system embedded with biological water channels that can filter water using 80% less energy than conventional processes.P100
Biotechnology Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Water Treatment -
Biolytix®
Biolytix®
Biolytix
Biolytix markets a household wastewater treatment system that relies on worms and other organisms to filter water and break down sewage. The system uses no toxic chemicals and 90% less energy than conventional aerated sewage treatment systems.P101
Waste Management Water Treatment
Materials
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Keratin-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Keratin-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Chris Nomura, SUNY-ESF
Dr. Nomura at SUNY-ESF is producing low-embodied energy, keratin‐inspired polymers to be used as crosslinking agents in resins and coatings, replacing petroleum‐derived crosslinkers. Terrapin worked with the research team to find applications for the technology and secure funding.P47
Chemical Manufacturing Oil & Gas Plastic Products -
Nacre-Inspired Deformable Glass
Nacre-Inspired Deformable Glass
Dr. Francois Barthelat, McGill University
Inspired by the microscopic structure of nacre and teeth, researchers at McGill University developed deformable glass that is 200 times tougher than standard glass due to a pattern of micro-cracks.P48
Advanced Materials Glass Products -
Bacteria-Inspired Adhesive
Bacteria-Inspired Adhesive
Dr. Jay Tang, Brown University
The bacterium Caulobacter crescentus produces a biodegradable, waterproof adhesive with greater strain resistance than commercial super glues. Dr. Jay Tang at Brown University believes that mimicking its chemistry could yield a nontoxic glue that adheres underwater.P44
Advanced Materials -
Spider Silk Fibers
Spider Silk Fibers
Multiple Researchers
Spider silk has high tensile strength, extensibility and toughness compared to synthetic fibers like Kevlar and nylon. Researchers are investigating how to produce similar fibers for extremely strong threads, cords, and cables.P45
Advanced Materials Fibers & Filaments -
Whale Pacemaker
Whale Pacemaker
Jorge Reynolds Pombo
Contractions in humpback whale hearts are controlled by nano-fibers that conduct electrical signals through an otherwise non-conductive grease coating the heart. Mimicking this concept using carbon nanowires could lead to a new type of pacemaker.P46
Biotechnology Electronics Fibers & Filaments Healthcare Pharmaceuticals
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BioKnit Shoes
BioKnit Shoes
Ammo Liao Design
Similar to the strategy seen in many organisms where a limited number of substances are specifically used to produce materials with diverse mechanical properties, the shoe’s manufacturing process uses a single material to create a recyclable shoe that features varying levels of softness, strength, and flexibility.P108
Advanced Materials Fibers & Filaments Textiles & Apparel -
Biofilm-Based Technology
Biofilm-Based Technology
Dr. Neel Joshi, Harvard University
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute are expanding modified biofilms into a materials platform, with applications in nanoelectronics, industrial biocatalysis, optically active biological coatings, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation.P50
Advanced Materials Biotechnology Chemical Manufacturing Electronics Optics & Imaging Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Waste Management -
Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall
Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall
Achim Menges, University of Stuttgart
Taking inspiration from the material-efficient structures of organisms like sand dollars, architect Achim Menges constructed a bubble-like pavilion using interlocking timber panels.P55
Arts & Entertainment Building Construction Wood Products -
Enzyme-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Enzyme-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Geoff Coates, Cornell University
At Cornell University, Dr. Geoff Coates is developing an enzyme-like catalyst to synthesize biodegradable polyesters produced using significantly less energy than conventional polyester. Terrapin worked closely with Dr. Coates to develop research proposals and secure funding.P51
Chemical Manufacturing Oil & Gas Plastic Products -
Modern Meadow Meat
Modern Meadow Meat
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Modern Meadow is using tissue engineering techniques that prompt animal cells to grow into muscle tissue for meat. This system provides an alternative to environmentally-destructive animal farming.P56
Agriculture Biotechnology Food Manufacturing -
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Dr. Anil Netravali, Cornell University
With assistance from Terrapin, Cornell researcher Dr. Anil Netravali is developing a superhydrophobic coating for high voltage power lines that reduces ice buildup, electrical outages, and costly infrastructure damage during winter storms.P52
Advanced Materials Chemical Manufacturing Paints & Adhesives Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Utilities -
Mussel-Inspired Adhesive
Mussel-Inspired Adhesive
Dr. Rich Gross, SyntheZyme
At RPI, Dr. Rich Gross is synthesizing cost-effective, environmentally-friendly bioadhesives designed by mimicking the chemical and mechanistic features of marine mussels’ byssal threads. Terrapin worked with Dr. Gross to differentiate his technology from competitors and secure funding.P53
Advanced Materials Paints & Adhesives -
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Dr. Chunlei Guo, University of Rochester
Dr. Chunlei Guo at University of Rochester uses laser processing to produce superwicking materials that enable more efficient air conditioning. Terrapin worked with Dr. Guo to define the market value of his technology and secure funding.P54
Advanced Materials Building Systems HVAC & Refrigeration Metal Manufacturing Plastic Products -
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Dr. Melik Demirel; Penn State
Inspired by the mechanical properties of squid teeth, engineers created a polymer that can heal itself in the presence of warm water and slight pressure. This product may be applied in medical implants, textiles, cosmetics, and other applications where self-healing polymers are valuable.P109
Advanced Materials Biotechnology Fibers & Filaments Pharmaceuticals Plastic Products Textiles & Apparel -
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Dr. Jeffrey Karp, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Researchers at the Karp Lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts, are developing a sandcastle worm-inspired surgical glue that sets while inside organs.P57
Biotechnology Healthcare Paints & Adhesives Pharmaceuticals
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Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures
Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures
Ceralink, Inc.
R&D firm Ceralink uses laminated object manufacturing, a rapid prototyping technique, to replicate bioinspired structures for use in clean energy applications. Terrapin worked with Ceralink to secure early-stage funding.P61
Advanced Materials Industrial Machinery Power Generation, Distribution & Storage -
Engineered Silk
Engineered Silk
Bolt Threads
Inspired by spider silk, Bolt Threads spins yeast-produced proteins into silk. These fibers–made from water, sugar, and salts–can provide garments and fabrics with greater durability and strength. The company raised $50 million in its Series C funding round.P103
Advanced Materials Biotechnology Chemical Manufacturing Fibers & Filaments Textiles & Apparel -
Modern Meadow Leather
Modern Meadow Leather
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Biotech startup Modern Meadow uses advanced tissue engineering techniques to make lab-grown leather that is analogous to leather produced from animals.P59
Agriculture Biotechnology Textiles & Apparel -
SLIPS
SLIPS
SLIPS Technologies, Inc.
Inspired by the slippery surface of the pitcher plant, this microscopic coating has applications in anti-fouling, heat exchange, and rapid defrosting. SLIPS Technologies was launched in 2014 after incubation at Harvard’s Wyss Institute.P60
Advanced Materials Glass Products Healthcare Paints & Adhesives -
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Nature Inspired Industries; Dr. David Kisailus (UC Riverside)
The developers of this highly impact-resistant composite material—inspired by the hard club of the Mantis shrimp—received an acquisition offer that provided initial seed investors a 10x return in only 18 months.P49
Advanced Materials Cement & Concrete Fibers & Filaments Paints & Adhesives Plastic Products
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Hairprint®
Hairprint®
Hairprint; Warner Babcock Institute
This hair treatment, currently designed for brown or black hair, restores gray hair to its former color. The technology mimics the hair pigmentation process and uses the natural pigment eumelanin that dictates hair color.P102
Healthcare Household Goods Pharmaceuticals -
Biocement™ Bricks
Biocement™ Bricks
bioMASON
Combining sand, bacteria, nutrients, a nitrogen source, a calcium source, and water, biotech startup bioMASON “grows” bricks by leveraging the bacteria’s metabolic activities, which cause calcium carbonate to cement the sand together without firing.P58 The company has started licensing their technology so bricks can be manufactured on-demand at a construction site.
Advanced Materials Biotechnology Building Construction Cement & Concrete -
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo uses microbes to grow valuable products. The microorganisms are modified by introducing DNA sequences known to produce industry-relevant materials. The company has focused on sectors including “flavors and fragrance, cosmetics and personal care, and food and nutrition” and recently raised $100 million in Series C funding.P110
Biotechnology Chemical Manufacturing Food Manufacturing Healthcare Household Goods Pharmaceuticals -
GreenShield®
GreenShield®
BigSky Technologies
This nanoparticle-based textile finish, inspired by plant leaves, allows water droplets to roll off fabric, carrying along dirt and other particles to create a self-cleaning effect.P107
Advanced Materials Fibers & Filaments Household Goods Textiles & Apparel -
Mother Dirt™
Mother Dirt™
AOBiome
This body spray contains bacteria that convert urea and ammonia in sweat—which is abrasive to the skin, causing acne and irritation—into nitrite, which has anti-inflammatory properties. The spray reduces a user’s dependence on modern hygiene products and replenishes the skin microbiome.P89
Biotechnology Healthcare Household Goods Pharmaceuticals -
Mushroom® Materials
Mushroom® Materials
Ecovative
Ecovative grows mycelium in molds filled with agricultural waste. The fungi bind the waste fibers together into a solid mass, which is heat treated to produce a biodegradable alternative to harmful synthetic packaging and other products.P62
Advanced Materials Agriculture Biotechnology Building Construction Plastic Products Waste Management -
Sharklet™
Sharklet™
Sharklet Technologies, Inc.
Sharklet™ surface textures are used on products like medical devices, furniture, and cell phone cases. The plastic coatings have microscopic patterns inspired by sharkskin that repel bacteria without perpetuating antibiotic resistance.P64
Advanced Materials Healthcare Paints & Adhesives Plastic Products -
WikiPearls™
WikiPearls™
WikiFoods, Inc.
Inspired by fruit and vegetable peels, WikiPearls™, developed by WikiFoods, Inc., seal food and beverages in bite-sized, edible “wrappers” that obviate plastic packaging.P65
Advanced Materials Food Manufacturing Waste Management -
Interface® Carpet
Interface® Carpet
Interface, Inc.
Global carpet manufacturer Interface developed modular carpet tiles with patterns that can be laid down randomly, without glue, mimicking variegated leaves on a forest floor.P66
Household Goods Textiles & Apparel -
StoCoat Lotusan®
StoCoat Lotusan®
Sto Corp.
Building products manufacturer Sto Corp. developed a hydrophobic acrylic paint that mimics the self-cleaning properties of the lotus leaf.P67
Advanced Materials Paints & Adhesives -
PureBond®
PureBond®
Columbia Forest Products
Developed by Columbia Forest Products, this soy-based glue mimics mussel adhesive. The North American panel manufacturer uses PureBond to laminate plywood without added formaldehyde.P68
Chemical Manufacturing Paints & Adhesives Wood Products -
VELCRO® Fasteners
VELCRO® Fasteners
Velcro Industries
This ubiquitous fastener was inspired by the miniature hooks on seed burrs that allow them to cling to looped fabric.P69
Textiles & Apparel
Energy Conversion & Storage
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Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Dr. Art Stipanovic, SUNY-ESF
Terrapin helped secure early funding for research by Dr. Stipanovic at SUNY-ESF. He aims to isolate the digestive enzymes of Red Pandas – which efficiently convert biomass to fermentable sugars—for use in biofuel production.P27
Agriculture Biotechnology Oil & Gas Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Waste Management -
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Cambrian Innovation
The prestin protein in animal ears converts vibrations into electrical signals. IntAct Labs, now Cambrian Innovation, embedded prestin proteins into “skins” that generate electricity from movement and wind.P26
Advanced Materials Building Systems Electronics Power Generation, Distribution & Storage
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bioSTREAM™ Power
bioSTREAM™ Power
BioPower Systems
BioPower Systems in Australia is developing fishtail-inspired modules that generate power from tidal currents. The fin of each module pivots relative to the direction of the current, creating a swimming motion that generates an electric current.P29
Electronics Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Utilities -
Electric Eel BattCell
Electric Eel BattCell
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors, Inc.
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors claims that their patented BattCell prototype, inspired by the electric eel, uses a biomimetic membrane to enhance its power density beyond other fuel cell technologies.P28
Advanced Materials Electronics Power Generation, Distribution & Storage
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µMist® Platform Technology
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
Chemical Manufacturing Food Manufacturing HVAC & Refrigeration Oil & Gas Paints & Adhesives Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Transportation Water Treatment -
BioWAVE™ Power
BioWAVE™ Power
BioPower Systems
bioWAVE™, a wave energy generator developed by BioPower Systems, mimics the motion of ocean vegetation. The swaying motion generates power through a unique hydraulic system undergoing testing in a 250 kW demonstration project.P31
Industrial Machinery Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Utilities -
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Energy
Ohio-based Pilus Energy, a subsidiary of Tauriga Sciences, is currently pilot testing its microbial fuel cell technology. As modified bacteria break down organics in wastewater, they produce electricity, treated water, and useful chemical compounds.P32
Biotechnology Chemical Manufacturing Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Water Treatment
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Voltaic Pile
Voltaic Pile
Alessandro Volta
Studies of the electric Torpedo ray and frog leg nerve responses led Alessandro Volta to build the first battery, the Voltaic pile, by stacking metal and salt-soaked discs in a similar arrangement to the discs within the fish’s electric organ.P33
Chemical Manufacturing Electronics Power Generation, Distribution & Storage
Optics & Photonics
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Moth Eye-Inspired X-Ray Imaging
Moth Eye-Inspired X-Ray Imaging
Dr. Yasha Yi-a, City University of New York
Researchers found that a radial microstructure inspired by moth eyes increases light extraction of X-ray machine scintillators. This finding may enable lower dose radiation for imaging patients.P72
Advanced Materials Healthcare Optics & Imaging -
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Dr. Joanna Aizenberg, Harvard University
Highly fracture-resistant sea sponge spinacles could inspire tougher optical glass fibers manufactured at room temperature.P70
Advanced Materials Glass Products Lighting Optics & Imaging Telecommunication -
Spider Web-Based Optoelectronics
Spider Web-Based Optoelectronics
Dr. Jinwei Gao, South China Normal University
Metallized spider webs perform better than standard optoelectronic arrays and can be stretched without losing performance. This finding by several academic teams paves the way to next-generation flexible touch screens.P71
Electronics Optics & Imaging
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Beetle Shell-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Beetle Shell-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Dr. Seung-Yop Lee and Dr. Jungyul Park, Sogang University
Scientists at Sogang University have developed a microporous material inspired by the shell of the Hercules beetle that changes color in response to humidity levels. This material could be used in a low-power humidity sensor.P73
Advanced Materials Electronics Optics & Imaging -
Cephalopod Skin-Inspired Displays
Cephalopod Skin-Inspired Displays
Dr. Roger Hanlon, Marine Biological Laboratory
Inspired by cephalopods, researchers at the Eugene Bell Center in Massachusetts are creating electronic-sensing and color changing sheets. These optical materials may be used in low-power electronic displays.P74
Advanced Materials Electronics Optics & Imaging -
Seed-Inspired Color Changing Fibers
Seed-Inspired Color Changing Fibers
Dr. Mathias Kolle, MIT
After studying the photonic properties of the Margaritaria nobilius seed, researchers at MIT developed fibers that change color when stretched.P75
Advanced Materials Fibers & Filaments Optics & Imaging
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Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Dr. Radislav Potyrailo, GE Global Research
GE Global Research is using Morpho butterfly wing scale microstructures as inspiration for small, highly sensitive infrared sensors.P76
Advanced Materials Building Systems Data Centers Optics & Imaging
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ChromaFlair® Paint
ChromaFlair® Paint
JDSU
JDSU, a manufacturer based in California, makes brilliant, color-shifting paints that use the thin-film interference phenomenon found in butterfly wings and seashells. The company’s ChromaFlair® paint is used on cars, sports equipment, and building interiors.P77
Advanced Materials Arts & Entertainment Paints & Adhesives -
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Dyesol
Dyesol’s dye-sensitized solar cells, which mimic the electron transport chain in photosynthesis, are printed on thin, flexible plastic using non-toxic, low-energy manufacturing.P78
Advanced Materials Paints & Adhesives Power Generation, Distribution & Storage -
IRLens™
IRLens™
Schaefer Ventilation
Schaefer Ventilation’s HotZone® Radiant Heaters rely on a lobster eye-inspired lens that focuses infrared radiation, heating a concentrated area instead of diffusing heat like standard radiant heaters.P79
Building Systems HVAC & Refrigeration Lighting -
ORNILUX Glass
ORNILUX Glass
Arnold Glas
After studying how birds in flight avoid spider webs, the European glass manufacturer Arnold Glas commercialized ORNILUX, a spider web-patterned UV reflective glass that reduces bird collisions by 77%.P81
Building Systems Glass Products -
Moth Eye Anti-Reflective Film
Moth Eye Anti-Reflective Film
Multiple Researchers
Anti-reflective films inspired by the moth eye’s microstructure improve solar panel photo absorption by 5 to 10%.P80
Advanced Materials Glass Products Power Generation, Distribution & Storage
Thermoregulation
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Tardigrade-Inspired Organ Preservation
Tardigrade-Inspired Organ Preservation
Multiple Researchers
Studying how tardigrades and other organisms undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, could lead to better preservation of organs for transplant.P90
Biotechnology Food Manufacturing Healthcare
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Vascular Window Cooling
Vascular Window Cooling
Benjamen Hatton, Wyss Institute
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute have created windows with microfluidic channels patterned like vascular circulatory systems.P91
Building Systems Glass Products HVAC & Refrigeration
-
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
Nova Laboratories Ltd.
“Dry” vaccines, created by Nova Laboratories in the U.K., do not require refrigeration. The active materials are encased in a sugar matrix, a technique inspired by organisms that undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation.P93
Healthcare HVAC & Refrigeration Pharmaceuticals Warehouse & Distribution -
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
HARBEC, Inc.
Plastics manufacturer HARBEC incorporated internal cooling channels in its molds, mimicking the flow patterns in dicot leaves, to dissipate heat more effectively. The new molds reduce cooling time and energy consumption by more than 20%. The increase in production speed has allowed HARBEC to fulfill tighter turn-around times.P92
Data Centers Electronics Food Manufacturing HVAC & Refrigeration Industrial Machinery Plastic Products -
SampleMatrix®
SampleMatrix®
Biomatrica, Inc.
The California-based company Biomatrica developed processes akin to anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, to stabilize fragile biological materials like DNA so they can be stored without refrigeration.P94
Healthcare HVAC & Refrigeration Pharmaceuticals Warehouse & Distribution -
Arctic Fish-Inspired Ice Cream
Arctic Fish-Inspired Ice Cream
Unilever
Unilever developed a creamier, low-fat ice cream by adding an ice-structuring protein adopted from an arctic fish. The protein prevents large ice crystals from forming.P95
Food Manufacturing
Fluid Dynamics
Swipe-
Jellyfish Jet Propulsion
Jellyfish Jet Propulsion
Dr. John Dabiri, CalTech
According to a research team at Caltech, jellyfish-inspired pulsed jet propulsion could be 50% more efficient that existing steady-jet propulsion.P37
Oil & Gas Transportation -
Cactus-Inspired High-Rises
Cactus-Inspired High-Rises
Dr. Chris Letchford, RPI
Inspired by the saguaro cactus, Dr. Letchford at RPI is studying the aerodynamics of vertically-grooved, slender cylinders to define optimal geometries for reduced wind loading on tall buildings.P34
Building Construction -
Snake-Inspired Flight
Snake-Inspired Flight
Dr. Jake Socha, Virginia Tech
The tree snake Chrysopelea glides from tree to tree by flattening its body and swaying in the air. DARPA funded research on Chrysopelea for possible military applications.P35
Transportation -
“V” Formation Flight
“V” Formation Flight
Dr. Ilan Kroo, Stanford University
When moving through fluids, objects in a “V” formation expend less energy than solo objects.P36
Oil & Gas Transportation
-
RoboClam Excavator
RoboClam Excavator
Dr. Anette Hosoi, MIT
A team at MIT constructed a prototype robotic excavator inspired by the low-drag burrowing of Atlantic razor clams. The excavator could be used for reversible ocean anchoring, subsea cable installation, and ocean sensor placement.P38
Mining Oil & Gas Transportation
-
Schooling Fish Wind Farms
Schooling Fish Wind Farms
Dr. John Dabiri, CalTech
Engineers at Caltech developed algorithms inspired by schooling fish that decrease the amount of space required for vertical axis wind farms without compromising individual turbine efficiency.P39
Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Utilities
-
500-Series Shinkasen Train
500-Series Shinkasen Train
Eiji Nakatsu
The Japanese bullet train has a pointed nose inspired by the kingfisher’s beak that reduces noise and power consumption while increasing speed.P42
Industrial Machinery Transportation -
FE2owlet Fan
FE2owlet Fan
Ziehl-Abegg
Inspired by the silent air movement over barn owl wings, the fan can improve the efficiency of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other ventilators by 15% while also reducing noise levels.P106
Building Systems Data Centers Electronics Food Manufacturing HVAC & Refrigeration Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Utilities -
Lily Impeller
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
Building Systems Chemical Manufacturing Data Centers Electronics Food Manufacturing HVAC & Refrigeration Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Water Treatment -
Tubercle Technology™
Tubercle Technology™
WhalePower
Inspired by the tubercles found on whale fins, WhalePower developed blades with bumps along the leading edges that allow for very high stall angles. Envira-North Systems in Ontario applied the technology to their high volume, low speed Altra-Air fan.P41
Building Systems Data Centers HVAC & Refrigeration Power Generation, Distribution & Storage
Data & Computing
Swipe-
Fibonacci Solar Power Plant
Fibonacci Solar Power Plant
Dr. Corey Noone, MIT
Fibonacci spirals are a naturally-occurring strategy for packing many units together efficiently. Engineers at MIT have modeled a Fibonacci sequence for reflectors in concentrated solar plants, creating an arrangement that would theoretically reduce land use by 20%.P12
Optics & Imaging Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Utilities -
Locust Collision Avoidance
Locust Collision Avoidance
Volvo Car Group
Volvo is investigating how to incorporate the unique collision avoidance abilities of swarming locusts into crash avoidance sensors for cars.P13
Industrial Machinery Software Transportation -
Bat-Nav System
Bat-Nav System
Dr. Arseny Finklestein, Weizmann Institute of Science
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute in Israel found that bats track their positions in three dimensions using a donut-shaped coordinate system, which could inspire a new navigation system.P9
Electronics Software Transportation -
DNA-Based Computing
DNA-Based Computing
Multiple Researchers
DNA-based computers could theoretically use chemical base pairs as “switches.” This would enable a much more space-efficient, non-toxic form of computing that would pack the computing power of the most powerful supercomputer into a drop of water.P10
Data Centers Electronics Software Telecommunication -
Venus Flytrap Electrical Switches
Venus Flytrap Electrical Switches
Multiple Researchers
Trigger hairs inside the leaf of the carnivorous Venus flytrap act like electrical switches; when two are stimulated by an insect, the leaf closes. Such switches could inspire electrical devices made from abundant, non-toxic chemicals.P11
Advanced Materials Biotechnology Electronics
-
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Dr. Shantanu Chakrabartty, Michigan State University
Engineers at Michigan State developed a sensor based on a fly’s ear that accurately detects the source of sounds using a mechanical lever system and neuronal signal processing.P16
Advanced Materials Electronics Industrial Machinery Software Telecommunication -
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Multiple Researchers
Compound insect eyes can detect movement much faster than traditional cameras. This capacity has inspired novel vision sensors for aerial systems, robotics, high-speed inspection in manufacturing, and other applications.P17
Electronics Optics & Imaging Software Utilities -
DNA Data Storage
DNA Data Storage
Dr. George Church, Harvard University
Scientists at Harvard’s Wyss Institute coded 700 terabytes of data into less than one gram of DNA. The scientists believe that with further improvements, all the world’s data (1.8 zettabytes) could theoretically be stored in about 4 grams of DNA.P15
Advanced Materials Data Centers Electronics Software -
Autonomous Swarm Robots
Autonomous Swarm Robots
Dr. Radhika Nagpal, Harvard University
Autonomous robot swarms, developed by researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute, organize themselves into complex shapes using swarm intelligence—a method of computation inspired by swarming organisms like ants, bees, birds, and bacteria.P14
Electronics Industrial Machinery Software
-
Ant-Based Distribution Algorithm
Ant-Based Distribution Algorithm
Nu Tech Software Solutions, Inc.
Bios Group, now NuTech Solutions, studied ant foraging to develop a logistics algorithm for industrial supplier Air Liquide. Air Liquide uses the algorithm to manage plant scheduling, weather, and deliveries, which has yielded substantial time and cost savings.P20
Software Transportation Warehouse & Distribution -
Honey Bee Web Hosting
Honey Bee Web Hosting
Dr. Craig Tovey, Georgia Tech
Researchers at Georgia Tech developed an internet server system that adapts to user demand the way bees adapt to changing food sources: by communicating the new locations back to the hive. The system increased one web hosting company’s revenues by 20%.P18
Data Centers Software Telecommunication -
Artificial Immune System Software
Artificial Immune System Software
Multiple Researchers
Artificial immune systems are inspired by the way higher organism immune systems detect foreign bodies and adapt to rid the body of them. These algorithms are used in computer security, robotics, and fault detection.P21
Building Systems Data Centers Electronics Financial Services Healthcare Industrial Machinery Software -
Evolutionary-Designed Antenna
Evolutionary-Designed Antenna
NASA
NASA contractors compared designs for a spacecraft antenna, one of which was developed using an evolutionary algorithm and the other using conventional engineering. The former outperformed the latter in functionality and reduced design time.P22
Broadcast Electronics Industrial Machinery -
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM, Cornell Tech
Scientists at IBM and Cornell Tech developed a chip inspired by neural networks that increases performance during data-intensive computations and drastically reduces power consumption.P19
Data Centers Electronics Healthcare Optics & Imaging Software Telecommunication Transportation
-
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
Altair
Inspired by the way bones grow, software developer Altair created structural analysis software that uses an evolutionary algorithm to find the optimum shape for components, reducing weight and materials without compromising strength.P24
Building Construction Metal Manufacturing Plastic Products Software Transportation -
Swarm Logic™
Swarm Logic™
Encycle
Inspired by bee communication, Encycle’s Swarm Logic™ systems reduce a building’s energy draw, especially during peak hours, by using individual wireless controllers that coordinate when HVAC units power on.P25
HVAC & Refrigeration Software Utilities -
Ant-Based Plane Guidance
Ant-Based Plane Guidance
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines developed an ant-inspired computing algorithm that drastically reduces the amount of time planes wait for gates to open at airports.P23
Software Transportation Warehouse & Distribution
Systems
Swipe-
Sahara Forest Project
Sahara Forest Project
Exploration Architecture
The Sahara Forest Project, proposed by British firm Exploration Architecture, combines evaporation from Seawater Greenhouses (see Water) with excess heat from adjacent concentrated solar plants in order to create moist microclimates that curb desertification.P82
Agriculture Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Waste Management
-
Cardboard to Caviar
Cardboard to Caviar
Graham Wiles
This closed-loop recycling scheme uses waste products like cardboard from restaurants to make products like caviar from farmed sturgeon. The concept could be replicated with other interrelated products to reduce waste and save energy and money.P83
Agriculture Food Manufacturing Waste Management
-
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Agriculture Building Construction Building Systems Food Manufacturing Healthcare Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Utilities Warehouse & Distribution Water Treatment -
Biomimetic Investing
Biomimetic Investing
Honeybee Capital
Katherine Collins of Honeybee Capital proposed an investing framework that uses biological principles to encourage resilient, regenerative, and profitable investing activities.P84
Financial Services
-
Aquaponic Systems
Aquaponic Systems
Multiple Companies
Hydroponics and fish farming are combined based on the symbiotic flow of nutrients between the fish and plants. Fish waste provides nutrients to the plants, which filter the water for the fish.P86
Agriculture Waste Management Water Treatment -
Eco-Machine®
Eco-Machine®
John Todd Ecological Design
John Todd Ecological Design uses constructed wetlands and aquatic tanks containing various microbes, plants, and aquatic animals to filter wastewater.P87
Agriculture Waste Management Water Treatment -
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Symbiosis
In Kalundborg, Denmark, over 16 industrial facilities and farms in close proximity exchange materials and energy. One plant’s waste becomes another’s raw material, saving about $15 million a year.P88
Power Generation, Distribution & Storage Utilities Warehouse & Distribution Waste Management Water Treatment
Industries
Tap to OpenAdvanced Materials
Swipe-
Passive Fluid Transport
Passive Fluid Transport
Dr. Philip Comanns; Aachen University
With potential applications in fields such as microfluidics, medical applications, and distilleries, this process of passively transporting fluid through interconnecting capillaries on a material’s surface mimics the water retrieving process of Texas horned lizards’ skin.P104
Prototype -
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nanotechnologies, Inc.
NBD Nano is developing a novel hydrophobic coating inspired by the Namibian Desert Beetle’s shell. This coating for condensing tubes in power plants increases heat transfer rate by 200%, and has applications in other industrial processes, thermal desalination, and fog harvesting. NBD Nano is moving into large scale pilot testing.P40
Development -
BioKnit Shoes
BioKnit Shoes
Ammo Liao Design
Similar to the strategy seen in many organisms where a limited number of substances are specifically used to produce materials with diverse mechanical properties, the shoe’s manufacturing process uses a single material to create a recyclable shoe that features varying levels of softness, strength, and flexibility.P108
Prototype -
ChromaFlair® Paint
ChromaFlair® Paint
JDSU
JDSU, a manufacturer based in California, makes brilliant, color-shifting paints that use the thin-film interference phenomenon found in butterfly wings and seashells. The company’s ChromaFlair® paint is used on cars, sports equipment, and building interiors.P77
In Market -
Biocement™ Bricks
Biocement™ Bricks
bioMASON
Combining sand, bacteria, nutrients, a nitrogen source, a calcium source, and water, biotech startup bioMASON “grows” bricks by leveraging the bacteria’s metabolic activities, which cause calcium carbonate to cement the sand together without firing.P58 The company has started licensing their technology so bricks can be manufactured on-demand at a construction site.
In Market -
Biofilm-Based Technology
Biofilm-Based Technology
Dr. Neel Joshi, Harvard University
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute are expanding modified biofilms into a materials platform, with applications in nanoelectronics, industrial biocatalysis, optically active biological coatings, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation.P50
Prototype -
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Using waste methane as a feedstock, Mango Materials grows bacteria that naturally produce a biopolymer. This economically competitive material can be used to create biodegradable plastic as well as conventional products like electronic casings, bottles, and children’s toys.P105
Development -
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Dyesol
Dyesol’s dye-sensitized solar cells, which mimic the electron transport chain in photosynthesis, are printed on thin, flexible plastic using non-toxic, low-energy manufacturing.P78
In Market -
GreenShield®
GreenShield®
BigSky Technologies
This nanoparticle-based textile finish, inspired by plant leaves, allows water droplets to roll off fabric, carrying along dirt and other particles to create a self-cleaning effect.P107
In Market -
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Dr. Anil Netravali, Cornell University
With assistance from Terrapin, Cornell researcher Dr. Anil Netravali is developing a superhydrophobic coating for high voltage power lines that reduces ice buildup, electrical outages, and costly infrastructure damage during winter storms.P52
Prototype -
Mussel-Inspired Adhesive
Mussel-Inspired Adhesive
Dr. Rich Gross, SyntheZyme
At RPI, Dr. Rich Gross is synthesizing cost-effective, environmentally-friendly bioadhesives designed by mimicking the chemical and mechanistic features of marine mussels’ byssal threads. Terrapin worked with Dr. Gross to differentiate his technology from competitors and secure funding.P53
Prototype -
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Dr. Chunlei Guo, University of Rochester
Dr. Chunlei Guo at University of Rochester uses laser processing to produce superwicking materials that enable more efficient air conditioning. Terrapin worked with Dr. Guo to define the market value of his technology and secure funding.P54
Prototype -
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Dr. Melik Demirel; Penn State
Inspired by the mechanical properties of squid teeth, engineers created a polymer that can heal itself in the presence of warm water and slight pressure. This product may be applied in medical implants, textiles, cosmetics, and other applications where self-healing polymers are valuable.P109
Prototype -
Mushroom® Materials
Mushroom® Materials
Ecovative
Ecovative grows mycelium in molds filled with agricultural waste. The fungi bind the waste fibers together into a solid mass, which is heat treated to produce a biodegradable alternative to harmful synthetic packaging and other products.P62
In Market -
Sharklet™
Sharklet™
Sharklet Technologies, Inc.
Sharklet™ surface textures are used on products like medical devices, furniture, and cell phone cases. The plastic coatings have microscopic patterns inspired by sharkskin that repel bacteria without perpetuating antibiotic resistance.P64
In Market -
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Dr. Shantanu Chakrabartty, Michigan State University
Engineers at Michigan State developed a sensor based on a fly’s ear that accurately detects the source of sounds using a mechanical lever system and neuronal signal processing.P16
Prototype -
WikiPearls™
WikiPearls™
WikiFoods, Inc.
Inspired by fruit and vegetable peels, WikiPearls™, developed by WikiFoods, Inc., seal food and beverages in bite-sized, edible “wrappers” that obviate plastic packaging.P65
In Market -
DNA Data Storage
DNA Data Storage
Dr. George Church, Harvard University
Scientists at Harvard’s Wyss Institute coded 700 terabytes of data into less than one gram of DNA. The scientists believe that with further improvements, all the world’s data (1.8 zettabytes) could theoretically be stored in about 4 grams of DNA.P15
Prototype -
Moth Eye Anti-Reflective Film
Moth Eye Anti-Reflective Film
Multiple Researchers
Anti-reflective films inspired by the moth eye’s microstructure improve solar panel photo absorption by 5 to 10%.P80
In Market -
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Dr. Radislav Potyrailo, GE Global Research
GE Global Research is using Morpho butterfly wing scale microstructures as inspiration for small, highly sensitive infrared sensors.P76
Development -
Beetle Shell-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Beetle Shell-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Dr. Seung-Yop Lee and Dr. Jungyul Park, Sogang University
Scientists at Sogang University have developed a microporous material inspired by the shell of the Hercules beetle that changes color in response to humidity levels. This material could be used in a low-power humidity sensor.P73
Prototype -
Cephalopod Skin-Inspired Displays
Cephalopod Skin-Inspired Displays
Dr. Roger Hanlon, Marine Biological Laboratory
Inspired by cephalopods, researchers at the Eugene Bell Center in Massachusetts are creating electronic-sensing and color changing sheets. These optical materials may be used in low-power electronic displays.P74
Prototype -
Seed-Inspired Color Changing Fibers
Seed-Inspired Color Changing Fibers
Dr. Mathias Kolle, MIT
After studying the photonic properties of the Margaritaria nobilius seed, researchers at MIT developed fibers that change color when stretched.P75
Prototype -
Electric Eel BattCell
Electric Eel BattCell
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors, Inc.
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors claims that their patented BattCell prototype, inspired by the electric eel, uses a biomimetic membrane to enhance its power density beyond other fuel cell technologies.P28
Prototype -
StoCoat Lotusan®
StoCoat Lotusan®
Sto Corp.
Building products manufacturer Sto Corp. developed a hydrophobic acrylic paint that mimics the self-cleaning properties of the lotus leaf.P67
In Market -
Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures
Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures
Ceralink, Inc.
R&D firm Ceralink uses laminated object manufacturing, a rapid prototyping technique, to replicate bioinspired structures for use in clean energy applications. Terrapin worked with Ceralink to secure early-stage funding.P61
Development -
Engineered Silk
Engineered Silk
Bolt Threads
Inspired by spider silk, Bolt Threads spins yeast-produced proteins into silk. These fibers–made from water, sugar, and salts–can provide garments and fabrics with greater durability and strength. The company raised $50 million in its Series C funding round.P103
Development -
SLIPS
SLIPS
SLIPS Technologies, Inc.
Inspired by the slippery surface of the pitcher plant, this microscopic coating has applications in anti-fouling, heat exchange, and rapid defrosting. SLIPS Technologies was launched in 2014 after incubation at Harvard’s Wyss Institute.P60
Development -
Venus Flytrap Electrical Switches
Venus Flytrap Electrical Switches
Multiple Researchers
Trigger hairs inside the leaf of the carnivorous Venus flytrap act like electrical switches; when two are stimulated by an insect, the leaf closes. Such switches could inspire electrical devices made from abundant, non-toxic chemicals.P11
Concept -
Moth Eye-Inspired X-Ray Imaging
Moth Eye-Inspired X-Ray Imaging
Dr. Yasha Yi-a, City University of New York
Researchers found that a radial microstructure inspired by moth eyes increases light extraction of X-ray machine scintillators. This finding may enable lower dose radiation for imaging patients.P72
Concept -
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Dr. Joanna Aizenberg, Harvard University
Highly fracture-resistant sea sponge spinacles could inspire tougher optical glass fibers manufactured at room temperature.P70
Concept -
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Cambrian Innovation
The prestin protein in animal ears converts vibrations into electrical signals. IntAct Labs, now Cambrian Innovation, embedded prestin proteins into “skins” that generate electricity from movement and wind.P26
Concept -
Nacre-Inspired Deformable Glass
Nacre-Inspired Deformable Glass
Dr. Francois Barthelat, McGill University
Inspired by the microscopic structure of nacre and teeth, researchers at McGill University developed deformable glass that is 200 times tougher than standard glass due to a pattern of micro-cracks.P48
Concept -
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Nature Inspired Industries; Dr. David Kisailus (UC Riverside)
The developers of this highly impact-resistant composite material—inspired by the hard club of the Mantis shrimp—received an acquisition offer that provided initial seed investors a 10x return in only 18 months.P49
Development -
Bacteria-Inspired Adhesive
Bacteria-Inspired Adhesive
Dr. Jay Tang, Brown University
The bacterium Caulobacter crescentus produces a biodegradable, waterproof adhesive with greater strain resistance than commercial super glues. Dr. Jay Tang at Brown University believes that mimicking its chemistry could yield a nontoxic glue that adheres underwater.P44
Concept -
Spider Silk Fibers
Spider Silk Fibers
Multiple Researchers
Spider silk has high tensile strength, extensibility and toughness compared to synthetic fibers like Kevlar and nylon. Researchers are investigating how to produce similar fibers for extremely strong threads, cords, and cables.P45
Concept -
Protein-Mediated Calcite Ceramics
Protein-Mediated Calcite Ceramics
Dr. Colin Freeman, University of Sheffield
Some organisms control calcite deposition to build complex structures like eggs–a process that could inspire precise ceramic manufacturing techniques.P1
Concept -
Photosynthetic Foam
Photosynthetic Foam
Dr. David Wendell, University of Cincinnati
Inspired by the tungara frog, which produces long-lasting foam nests, engineers at the University of Cincinnati developed a stable foam from one of the frog’s proteins and combined it with photosynthetic enzymes that convert CO2 to sugars and oxygen.P4
Concept
Agriculture
Swipe-
Passive Fluid Transport
Passive Fluid Transport
Dr. Philip Comanns; Aachen University
With potential applications in fields such as microfluidics, medical applications, and distilleries, this process of passively transporting fluid through interconnecting capillaries on a material’s surface mimics the water retrieving process of Texas horned lizards’ skin.P104
Prototype -
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nanotechnologies, Inc.
NBD Nano is developing a novel hydrophobic coating inspired by the Namibian Desert Beetle’s shell. This coating for condensing tubes in power plants increases heat transfer rate by 200%, and has applications in other industrial processes, thermal desalination, and fog harvesting. NBD Nano is moving into large scale pilot testing.P40
Development -
Aquaponic Systems
Aquaponic Systems
Multiple Companies
Hydroponics and fish farming are combined based on the symbiotic flow of nutrients between the fish and plants. Fish waste provides nutrients to the plants, which filter the water for the fish.P86
In Market -
Eco-Machine®
Eco-Machine®
John Todd Ecological Design
John Todd Ecological Design uses constructed wetlands and aquatic tanks containing various microbes, plants, and aquatic animals to filter wastewater.P87
In Market -
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development -
Modern Meadow Meat
Modern Meadow Meat
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Modern Meadow is using tissue engineering techniques that prompt animal cells to grow into muscle tissue for meat. This system provides an alternative to environmentally-destructive animal farming.P56
Prototype -
Cardboard to Caviar
Cardboard to Caviar
Graham Wiles
This closed-loop recycling scheme uses waste products like cardboard from restaurants to make products like caviar from farmed sturgeon. The concept could be replicated with other interrelated products to reduce waste and save energy and money.P83
Prototype -
Mushroom® Materials
Mushroom® Materials
Ecovative
Ecovative grows mycelium in molds filled with agricultural waste. The fungi bind the waste fibers together into a solid mass, which is heat treated to produce a biodegradable alternative to harmful synthetic packaging and other products.P62
In Market -
Modern Meadow Leather
Modern Meadow Leather
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Biotech startup Modern Meadow uses advanced tissue engineering techniques to make lab-grown leather that is analogous to leather produced from animals.P59
Development -
Seawater Greenhouse
Seawater Greenhouse
Seawater Greenhouses Ltd. and Sundrop Farms Pty. Ltd.
Inspired by the way the Namib beetle collects water from fog, Seawater Greenhouses use cold seawater, air movement and solar radiation to condense and collect fresh water for crops.P99
Development -
Fog Harvesting Mesh
Fog Harvesting Mesh
MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile
Researchers at MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile have designed specialized fog mesh nets that condense and capture 10% of the water in fog, a strategy inspired by how some Chilean organisms collect water from fog.P98
Development -
Sahara Forest Project
Sahara Forest Project
Exploration Architecture
The Sahara Forest Project, proposed by British firm Exploration Architecture, combines evaporation from Seawater Greenhouses (see Water) with excess heat from adjacent concentrated solar plants in order to create moist microclimates that curb desertification.P82
Concept -
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Dr. Art Stipanovic, SUNY-ESF
Terrapin helped secure early funding for research by Dr. Stipanovic at SUNY-ESF. He aims to isolate the digestive enzymes of Red Pandas – which efficiently convert biomass to fermentable sugars—for use in biofuel production.P27
Concept -
Cactus-Inspired Fog Harvesting
Cactus-Inspired Fog Harvesting
Dr. Jie Ju & Dr. Hao Bai, Chinese Academy of Sciences
The spines of the cactus Opuntia microdasys have specialized structures that can collect and funnel fog droplets into its base, prompting interest in fog harvesting devices that mimic the spines’ structures.P96
Concept
Arts & Entertainment
Swipe-
ChromaFlair® Paint
ChromaFlair® Paint
JDSU
JDSU, a manufacturer based in California, makes brilliant, color-shifting paints that use the thin-film interference phenomenon found in butterfly wings and seashells. The company’s ChromaFlair® paint is used on cars, sports equipment, and building interiors.P77
In Market -
Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall
Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall
Achim Menges, University of Stuttgart
Taking inspiration from the material-efficient structures of organisms like sand dollars, architect Achim Menges constructed a bubble-like pavilion using interlocking timber panels.P55
Prototype -
Protein-Mediated Calcite Ceramics
Protein-Mediated Calcite Ceramics
Dr. Colin Freeman, University of Sheffield
Some organisms control calcite deposition to build complex structures like eggs–a process that could inspire precise ceramic manufacturing techniques.P1
Concept
Biotechnology
Swipe-
Biocement™ Bricks
Biocement™ Bricks
bioMASON
Combining sand, bacteria, nutrients, a nitrogen source, a calcium source, and water, biotech startup bioMASON “grows” bricks by leveraging the bacteria’s metabolic activities, which cause calcium carbonate to cement the sand together without firing.P58 The company has started licensing their technology so bricks can be manufactured on-demand at a construction site.
In Market -
Biofilm-Based Technology
Biofilm-Based Technology
Dr. Neel Joshi, Harvard University
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute are expanding modified biofilms into a materials platform, with applications in nanoelectronics, industrial biocatalysis, optically active biological coatings, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation.P50
Prototype -
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo uses microbes to grow valuable products. The microorganisms are modified by introducing DNA sequences known to produce industry-relevant materials. The company has focused on sectors including “flavors and fragrance, cosmetics and personal care, and food and nutrition” and recently raised $100 million in Series C funding.P110
In Market -
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Using waste methane as a feedstock, Mango Materials grows bacteria that naturally produce a biopolymer. This economically competitive material can be used to create biodegradable plastic as well as conventional products like electronic casings, bottles, and children’s toys.P105
Development -
Modern Meadow Meat
Modern Meadow Meat
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Modern Meadow is using tissue engineering techniques that prompt animal cells to grow into muscle tissue for meat. This system provides an alternative to environmentally-destructive animal farming.P56
Prototype -
Mother Dirt™
Mother Dirt™
AOBiome
This body spray contains bacteria that convert urea and ammonia in sweat—which is abrasive to the skin, causing acne and irritation—into nitrite, which has anti-inflammatory properties. The spray reduces a user’s dependence on modern hygiene products and replenishes the skin microbiome.P89
In Market -
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Dr. Melik Demirel; Penn State
Inspired by the mechanical properties of squid teeth, engineers created a polymer that can heal itself in the presence of warm water and slight pressure. This product may be applied in medical implants, textiles, cosmetics, and other applications where self-healing polymers are valuable.P109
Prototype -
Mushroom® Materials
Mushroom® Materials
Ecovative
Ecovative grows mycelium in molds filled with agricultural waste. The fungi bind the waste fibers together into a solid mass, which is heat treated to produce a biodegradable alternative to harmful synthetic packaging and other products.P62
In Market -
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Dr. Jeffrey Karp, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Researchers at the Karp Lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts, are developing a sandcastle worm-inspired surgical glue that sets while inside organs.P57
Prototype -
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Energy
Ohio-based Pilus Energy, a subsidiary of Tauriga Sciences, is currently pilot testing its microbial fuel cell technology. As modified bacteria break down organics in wastewater, they produce electricity, treated water, and useful chemical compounds.P32
Development -
Engineered Silk
Engineered Silk
Bolt Threads
Inspired by spider silk, Bolt Threads spins yeast-produced proteins into silk. These fibers–made from water, sugar, and salts–can provide garments and fabrics with greater durability and strength. The company raised $50 million in its Series C funding round.P103
Development -
Modern Meadow Leather
Modern Meadow Leather
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Biotech startup Modern Meadow uses advanced tissue engineering techniques to make lab-grown leather that is analogous to leather produced from animals.P59
Development -
Aquaporin Inside™
Aquaporin Inside™
Aquaporin A/S
Aquaporin A/S is pilot testing a membrane system embedded with biological water channels that can filter water using 80% less energy than conventional processes.P100
In Market -
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Products
Headquartered in California, BioWorld sells mixes of specialized bacteria that break down hydrocarbons into less harmful chemicals. These products are authorized by the EPA for use on oil spills.P7
In Market -
Venus Flytrap Electrical Switches
Venus Flytrap Electrical Switches
Multiple Researchers
Trigger hairs inside the leaf of the carnivorous Venus flytrap act like electrical switches; when two are stimulated by an insect, the leaf closes. Such switches could inspire electrical devices made from abundant, non-toxic chemicals.P11
Concept -
Tardigrade-Inspired Organ Preservation
Tardigrade-Inspired Organ Preservation
Multiple Researchers
Studying how tardigrades and other organisms undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, could lead to better preservation of organs for transplant.P90
Concept -
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Dr. Art Stipanovic, SUNY-ESF
Terrapin helped secure early funding for research by Dr. Stipanovic at SUNY-ESF. He aims to isolate the digestive enzymes of Red Pandas – which efficiently convert biomass to fermentable sugars—for use in biofuel production.P27
Concept -
Enzymatic Toxin Remediation
Enzymatic Toxin Remediation
Dr. Jim Spain, Georgia Tech
Scientists at Georgia Tech patented the use of biological enzymes that break down harmful carbon compounds into valuable chemicals.P5
Prototype -
Whale Pacemaker
Whale Pacemaker
Jorge Reynolds Pombo
Contractions in humpback whale hearts are controlled by nano-fibers that conduct electrical signals through an otherwise non-conductive grease coating the heart. Mimicking this concept using carbon nanowires could lead to a new type of pacemaker.P46
Concept
Broadcast
Swipe-
Evolutionary-Designed Antenna
Evolutionary-Designed Antenna
NASA
NASA contractors compared designs for a spacecraft antenna, one of which was developed using an evolutionary algorithm and the other using conventional engineering. The former outperformed the latter in functionality and reduced design time.P22
Development
Building Construction
Swipe-
Biocement™ Bricks
Biocement™ Bricks
bioMASON
Combining sand, bacteria, nutrients, a nitrogen source, a calcium source, and water, biotech startup bioMASON “grows” bricks by leveraging the bacteria’s metabolic activities, which cause calcium carbonate to cement the sand together without firing.P58 The company has started licensing their technology so bricks can be manufactured on-demand at a construction site.
In Market -
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Ltd.
California-based Blue Planet synthesizes cement additives and other green building materials from waste carbon flue streams to make carbon-negative concrete. Terrapin is working with Blue Planet to identify potential demonstration sites in New York State.P6
Development -
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
Altair
Inspired by the way bones grow, software developer Altair created structural analysis software that uses an evolutionary algorithm to find the optimum shape for components, reducing weight and materials without compromising strength.P24
In Market -
Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall
Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall
Achim Menges, University of Stuttgart
Taking inspiration from the material-efficient structures of organisms like sand dollars, architect Achim Menges constructed a bubble-like pavilion using interlocking timber panels.P55
Prototype -
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development -
Mushroom® Materials
Mushroom® Materials
Ecovative
Ecovative grows mycelium in molds filled with agricultural waste. The fungi bind the waste fibers together into a solid mass, which is heat treated to produce a biodegradable alternative to harmful synthetic packaging and other products.P62
In Market -
Cactus-Inspired High-Rises
Cactus-Inspired High-Rises
Dr. Chris Letchford, RPI
Inspired by the saguaro cactus, Dr. Letchford at RPI is studying the aerodynamics of vertically-grooved, slender cylinders to define optimal geometries for reduced wind loading on tall buildings.P34
Concept
Building Systems
Swipe-
Passive Fluid Transport
Passive Fluid Transport
Dr. Philip Comanns; Aachen University
With potential applications in fields such as microfluidics, medical applications, and distilleries, this process of passively transporting fluid through interconnecting capillaries on a material’s surface mimics the water retrieving process of Texas horned lizards’ skin.P104
Prototype -
FE2owlet Fan
FE2owlet Fan
Ziehl-Abegg
Inspired by the silent air movement over barn owl wings, the fan can improve the efficiency of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other ventilators by 15% while also reducing noise levels.P106
In Market -
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development -
Lily Impeller
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
In Market -
IRLens™
IRLens™
Schaefer Ventilation
Schaefer Ventilation’s HotZone® Radiant Heaters rely on a lobster eye-inspired lens that focuses infrared radiation, heating a concentrated area instead of diffusing heat like standard radiant heaters.P79
In Market -
ORNILUX Glass
ORNILUX Glass
Arnold Glas
After studying how birds in flight avoid spider webs, the European glass manufacturer Arnold Glas commercialized ORNILUX, a spider web-patterned UV reflective glass that reduces bird collisions by 77%.P81
In Market -
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Dr. Chunlei Guo, University of Rochester
Dr. Chunlei Guo at University of Rochester uses laser processing to produce superwicking materials that enable more efficient air conditioning. Terrapin worked with Dr. Guo to define the market value of his technology and secure funding.P54
Prototype -
Artificial Immune System Software
Artificial Immune System Software
Multiple Researchers
Artificial immune systems are inspired by the way higher organism immune systems detect foreign bodies and adapt to rid the body of them. These algorithms are used in computer security, robotics, and fault detection.P21
Development -
Tubercle Technology™
Tubercle Technology™
WhalePower
Inspired by the tubercles found on whale fins, WhalePower developed blades with bumps along the leading edges that allow for very high stall angles. Envira-North Systems in Ontario applied the technology to their high volume, low speed Altra-Air fan.P41
In Market -
Vascular Window Cooling
Vascular Window Cooling
Benjamen Hatton, Wyss Institute
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute have created windows with microfluidic channels patterned like vascular circulatory systems.P91
Prototype -
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Dr. Radislav Potyrailo, GE Global Research
GE Global Research is using Morpho butterfly wing scale microstructures as inspiration for small, highly sensitive infrared sensors.P76
Development -
Termite Humidity Damping Device
Termite Humidity Damping Device
Terrapin Bright Green; Dr. Rupert Soar, Freeform Construction Ltd.; Dr. Scott Turner, SUNY-ESF
In collaboration with Terrapin Bright Green, Dr. Rupert Soar and Dr. Scott Turner are developing a passive humidity damping device based on the fungal combs in termite mounds. The device will stabilize humidity in building spaces, reducing a building’s energy demands.P97
Prototype -
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Cambrian Innovation
The prestin protein in animal ears converts vibrations into electrical signals. IntAct Labs, now Cambrian Innovation, embedded prestin proteins into “skins” that generate electricity from movement and wind.P26
Concept
Cement & Concrete
Swipe-
Biocement™ Bricks
Biocement™ Bricks
bioMASON
Combining sand, bacteria, nutrients, a nitrogen source, a calcium source, and water, biotech startup bioMASON “grows” bricks by leveraging the bacteria’s metabolic activities, which cause calcium carbonate to cement the sand together without firing.P58 The company has started licensing their technology so bricks can be manufactured on-demand at a construction site.
In Market -
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Ltd.
California-based Blue Planet synthesizes cement additives and other green building materials from waste carbon flue streams to make carbon-negative concrete. Terrapin is working with Blue Planet to identify potential demonstration sites in New York State.P6
Development -
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Nature Inspired Industries; Dr. David Kisailus (UC Riverside)
The developers of this highly impact-resistant composite material—inspired by the hard club of the Mantis shrimp—received an acquisition offer that provided initial seed investors a 10x return in only 18 months.P49
Development -
Protein-Mediated Calcite Ceramics
Protein-Mediated Calcite Ceramics
Dr. Colin Freeman, University of Sheffield
Some organisms control calcite deposition to build complex structures like eggs–a process that could inspire precise ceramic manufacturing techniques.P1
Concept
Chemical Manufacturing
Swipe-
Biofilm-Based Technology
Biofilm-Based Technology
Dr. Neel Joshi, Harvard University
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute are expanding modified biofilms into a materials platform, with applications in nanoelectronics, industrial biocatalysis, optically active biological coatings, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation.P50
Prototype -
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Ltd.
California-based Blue Planet synthesizes cement additives and other green building materials from waste carbon flue streams to make carbon-negative concrete. Terrapin is working with Blue Planet to identify potential demonstration sites in New York State.P6
Development -
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo uses microbes to grow valuable products. The microorganisms are modified by introducing DNA sequences known to produce industry-relevant materials. The company has focused on sectors including “flavors and fragrance, cosmetics and personal care, and food and nutrition” and recently raised $100 million in Series C funding.P110
In Market -
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Using waste methane as a feedstock, Mango Materials grows bacteria that naturally produce a biopolymer. This economically competitive material can be used to create biodegradable plastic as well as conventional products like electronic casings, bottles, and children’s toys.P105
Development -
Enzyme-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Enzyme-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Geoff Coates, Cornell University
At Cornell University, Dr. Geoff Coates is developing an enzyme-like catalyst to synthesize biodegradable polyesters produced using significantly less energy than conventional polyester. Terrapin worked closely with Dr. Coates to develop research proposals and secure funding.P51
Prototype -
Lily Impeller
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
In Market -
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Dr. Anil Netravali, Cornell University
With assistance from Terrapin, Cornell researcher Dr. Anil Netravali is developing a superhydrophobic coating for high voltage power lines that reduces ice buildup, electrical outages, and costly infrastructure damage during winter storms.P52
Prototype -
µMist® Platform Technology
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
Development -
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Energy
Ohio-based Pilus Energy, a subsidiary of Tauriga Sciences, is currently pilot testing its microbial fuel cell technology. As modified bacteria break down organics in wastewater, they produce electricity, treated water, and useful chemical compounds.P32
Development -
PureBond®
PureBond®
Columbia Forest Products
Developed by Columbia Forest Products, this soy-based glue mimics mussel adhesive. The North American panel manufacturer uses PureBond to laminate plywood without added formaldehyde.P68
In Market -
Voltaic Pile
Voltaic Pile
Alessandro Volta
Studies of the electric Torpedo ray and frog leg nerve responses led Alessandro Volta to build the first battery, the Voltaic pile, by stacking metal and salt-soaked discs in a similar arrangement to the discs within the fish’s electric organ.P33
In Market -
Engineered Silk
Engineered Silk
Bolt Threads
Inspired by spider silk, Bolt Threads spins yeast-produced proteins into silk. These fibers–made from water, sugar, and salts–can provide garments and fabrics with greater durability and strength. The company raised $50 million in its Series C funding round.P103
Development -
Seawater Greenhouse
Seawater Greenhouse
Seawater Greenhouses Ltd. and Sundrop Farms Pty. Ltd.
Inspired by the way the Namib beetle collects water from fog, Seawater Greenhouses use cold seawater, air movement and solar radiation to condense and collect fresh water for crops.P99
Development -
Converge® Polyols
Converge® Polyols
Novomer
Novomer took inspiration from photosynthetic organisms and developed a process that sequesters carbon by converting waste CO2 and CO into useful chemical polymers.P8 Currently, Ford is developing foams and plastics for its vehicles using the technology.P111
In Market -
Enzymatic Toxin Remediation
Enzymatic Toxin Remediation
Dr. Jim Spain, Georgia Tech
Scientists at Georgia Tech patented the use of biological enzymes that break down harmful carbon compounds into valuable chemicals.P5
Prototype -
Keratin-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Keratin-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Chris Nomura, SUNY-ESF
Dr. Nomura at SUNY-ESF is producing low-embodied energy, keratin‐inspired polymers to be used as crosslinking agents in resins and coatings, replacing petroleum‐derived crosslinkers. Terrapin worked with the research team to find applications for the technology and secure funding.P47
Concept -
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Dr. Peter Dinolfo
Terrapin assisted Dr. Dinolfo at RPI in securing funds for research that evaluates the rate and efficacy of an inexpensive catalyst. The catalyst mimics the water-splitting complex in plants and is used in artificial photosynthetic devices, zinc-air batteries, and other oxidation-dependent systems.P2
Concept -
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Dr. Jiandi Wan, RIT
Dr. Wan at RIT is developing a leaf-mimicking microfluidic device to convert CO2 into valuable chemical products like methane and methanol. Terrapin helped secure funding for this project.P3
Concept
Data Centers
Swipe-
FE2owlet Fan
FE2owlet Fan
Ziehl-Abegg
Inspired by the silent air movement over barn owl wings, the fan can improve the efficiency of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other ventilators by 15% while also reducing noise levels.P106
In Market -
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
HARBEC, Inc.
Plastics manufacturer HARBEC incorporated internal cooling channels in its molds, mimicking the flow patterns in dicot leaves, to dissipate heat more effectively. The new molds reduce cooling time and energy consumption by more than 20%. The increase in production speed has allowed HARBEC to fulfill tighter turn-around times.P92
In Market -
Lily Impeller
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
In Market -
Honey Bee Web Hosting
Honey Bee Web Hosting
Dr. Craig Tovey, Georgia Tech
Researchers at Georgia Tech developed an internet server system that adapts to user demand the way bees adapt to changing food sources: by communicating the new locations back to the hive. The system increased one web hosting company’s revenues by 20%.P18
Development -
Artificial Immune System Software
Artificial Immune System Software
Multiple Researchers
Artificial immune systems are inspired by the way higher organism immune systems detect foreign bodies and adapt to rid the body of them. These algorithms are used in computer security, robotics, and fault detection.P21
Development -
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM, Cornell Tech
Scientists at IBM and Cornell Tech developed a chip inspired by neural networks that increases performance during data-intensive computations and drastically reduces power consumption.P19
Development -
DNA Data Storage
DNA Data Storage
Dr. George Church, Harvard University
Scientists at Harvard’s Wyss Institute coded 700 terabytes of data into less than one gram of DNA. The scientists believe that with further improvements, all the world’s data (1.8 zettabytes) could theoretically be stored in about 4 grams of DNA.P15
Prototype -
Tubercle Technology™
Tubercle Technology™
WhalePower
Inspired by the tubercles found on whale fins, WhalePower developed blades with bumps along the leading edges that allow for very high stall angles. Envira-North Systems in Ontario applied the technology to their high volume, low speed Altra-Air fan.P41
In Market -
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Dr. Radislav Potyrailo, GE Global Research
GE Global Research is using Morpho butterfly wing scale microstructures as inspiration for small, highly sensitive infrared sensors.P76
Development -
DNA-Based Computing
DNA-Based Computing
Multiple Researchers
DNA-based computers could theoretically use chemical base pairs as “switches.” This would enable a much more space-efficient, non-toxic form of computing that would pack the computing power of the most powerful supercomputer into a drop of water.P10
Concept
Electronics
Swipe-
Biofilm-Based Technology
Biofilm-Based Technology
Dr. Neel Joshi, Harvard University
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute are expanding modified biofilms into a materials platform, with applications in nanoelectronics, industrial biocatalysis, optically active biological coatings, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation.P50
Prototype -
FE2owlet Fan
FE2owlet Fan
Ziehl-Abegg
Inspired by the silent air movement over barn owl wings, the fan can improve the efficiency of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other ventilators by 15% while also reducing noise levels.P106
In Market -
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
HARBEC, Inc.
Plastics manufacturer HARBEC incorporated internal cooling channels in its molds, mimicking the flow patterns in dicot leaves, to dissipate heat more effectively. The new molds reduce cooling time and energy consumption by more than 20%. The increase in production speed has allowed HARBEC to fulfill tighter turn-around times.P92
In Market -
Lily Impeller
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
In Market -
Artificial Immune System Software
Artificial Immune System Software
Multiple Researchers
Artificial immune systems are inspired by the way higher organism immune systems detect foreign bodies and adapt to rid the body of them. These algorithms are used in computer security, robotics, and fault detection.P21
Development -
Evolutionary-Designed Antenna
Evolutionary-Designed Antenna
NASA
NASA contractors compared designs for a spacecraft antenna, one of which was developed using an evolutionary algorithm and the other using conventional engineering. The former outperformed the latter in functionality and reduced design time.P22
Development -
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM, Cornell Tech
Scientists at IBM and Cornell Tech developed a chip inspired by neural networks that increases performance during data-intensive computations and drastically reduces power consumption.P19
Development -
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Dr. Shantanu Chakrabartty, Michigan State University
Engineers at Michigan State developed a sensor based on a fly’s ear that accurately detects the source of sounds using a mechanical lever system and neuronal signal processing.P16
Prototype -
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Multiple Researchers
Compound insect eyes can detect movement much faster than traditional cameras. This capacity has inspired novel vision sensors for aerial systems, robotics, high-speed inspection in manufacturing, and other applications.P17
Prototype -
DNA Data Storage
DNA Data Storage
Dr. George Church, Harvard University
Scientists at Harvard’s Wyss Institute coded 700 terabytes of data into less than one gram of DNA. The scientists believe that with further improvements, all the world’s data (1.8 zettabytes) could theoretically be stored in about 4 grams of DNA.P15
Prototype -
Autonomous Swarm Robots
Autonomous Swarm Robots
Dr. Radhika Nagpal, Harvard University
Autonomous robot swarms, developed by researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute, organize themselves into complex shapes using swarm intelligence—a method of computation inspired by swarming organisms like ants, bees, birds, and bacteria.P14
Prototype -
Beetle Shell-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Beetle Shell-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Dr. Seung-Yop Lee and Dr. Jungyul Park, Sogang University
Scientists at Sogang University have developed a microporous material inspired by the shell of the Hercules beetle that changes color in response to humidity levels. This material could be used in a low-power humidity sensor.P73
Prototype -
Cephalopod Skin-Inspired Displays
Cephalopod Skin-Inspired Displays
Dr. Roger Hanlon, Marine Biological Laboratory
Inspired by cephalopods, researchers at the Eugene Bell Center in Massachusetts are creating electronic-sensing and color changing sheets. These optical materials may be used in low-power electronic displays.P74
Prototype -
bioSTREAM™ Power
bioSTREAM™ Power
BioPower Systems
BioPower Systems in Australia is developing fishtail-inspired modules that generate power from tidal currents. The fin of each module pivots relative to the direction of the current, creating a swimming motion that generates an electric current.P29
Prototype -
Electric Eel BattCell
Electric Eel BattCell
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors, Inc.
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors claims that their patented BattCell prototype, inspired by the electric eel, uses a biomimetic membrane to enhance its power density beyond other fuel cell technologies.P28
Prototype -
Voltaic Pile
Voltaic Pile
Alessandro Volta
Studies of the electric Torpedo ray and frog leg nerve responses led Alessandro Volta to build the first battery, the Voltaic pile, by stacking metal and salt-soaked discs in a similar arrangement to the discs within the fish’s electric organ.P33
In Market -
Bat-Nav System
Bat-Nav System
Dr. Arseny Finklestein, Weizmann Institute of Science
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute in Israel found that bats track their positions in three dimensions using a donut-shaped coordinate system, which could inspire a new navigation system.P9
Concept -
DNA-Based Computing
DNA-Based Computing
Multiple Researchers
DNA-based computers could theoretically use chemical base pairs as “switches.” This would enable a much more space-efficient, non-toxic form of computing that would pack the computing power of the most powerful supercomputer into a drop of water.P10
Concept -
Venus Flytrap Electrical Switches
Venus Flytrap Electrical Switches
Multiple Researchers
Trigger hairs inside the leaf of the carnivorous Venus flytrap act like electrical switches; when two are stimulated by an insect, the leaf closes. Such switches could inspire electrical devices made from abundant, non-toxic chemicals.P11
Concept -
Spider Web-Based Optoelectronics
Spider Web-Based Optoelectronics
Dr. Jinwei Gao, South China Normal University
Metallized spider webs perform better than standard optoelectronic arrays and can be stretched without losing performance. This finding by several academic teams paves the way to next-generation flexible touch screens.P71
Concept -
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Cambrian Innovation
The prestin protein in animal ears converts vibrations into electrical signals. IntAct Labs, now Cambrian Innovation, embedded prestin proteins into “skins” that generate electricity from movement and wind.P26
Concept -
Whale Pacemaker
Whale Pacemaker
Jorge Reynolds Pombo
Contractions in humpback whale hearts are controlled by nano-fibers that conduct electrical signals through an otherwise non-conductive grease coating the heart. Mimicking this concept using carbon nanowires could lead to a new type of pacemaker.P46
Concept
Fibers & Filaments
Swipe-
BioKnit Shoes
BioKnit Shoes
Ammo Liao Design
Similar to the strategy seen in many organisms where a limited number of substances are specifically used to produce materials with diverse mechanical properties, the shoe’s manufacturing process uses a single material to create a recyclable shoe that features varying levels of softness, strength, and flexibility.P108
Prototype -
GreenShield®
GreenShield®
BigSky Technologies
This nanoparticle-based textile finish, inspired by plant leaves, allows water droplets to roll off fabric, carrying along dirt and other particles to create a self-cleaning effect.P107
In Market -
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Dr. Melik Demirel; Penn State
Inspired by the mechanical properties of squid teeth, engineers created a polymer that can heal itself in the presence of warm water and slight pressure. This product may be applied in medical implants, textiles, cosmetics, and other applications where self-healing polymers are valuable.P109
Prototype -
Seed-Inspired Color Changing Fibers
Seed-Inspired Color Changing Fibers
Dr. Mathias Kolle, MIT
After studying the photonic properties of the Margaritaria nobilius seed, researchers at MIT developed fibers that change color when stretched.P75
Prototype -
Engineered Silk
Engineered Silk
Bolt Threads
Inspired by spider silk, Bolt Threads spins yeast-produced proteins into silk. These fibers–made from water, sugar, and salts–can provide garments and fabrics with greater durability and strength. The company raised $50 million in its Series C funding round.P103
Development -
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Nature Inspired Industries; Dr. David Kisailus (UC Riverside)
The developers of this highly impact-resistant composite material—inspired by the hard club of the Mantis shrimp—received an acquisition offer that provided initial seed investors a 10x return in only 18 months.P49
Development -
Spider Silk Fibers
Spider Silk Fibers
Multiple Researchers
Spider silk has high tensile strength, extensibility and toughness compared to synthetic fibers like Kevlar and nylon. Researchers are investigating how to produce similar fibers for extremely strong threads, cords, and cables.P45
Concept -
Whale Pacemaker
Whale Pacemaker
Jorge Reynolds Pombo
Contractions in humpback whale hearts are controlled by nano-fibers that conduct electrical signals through an otherwise non-conductive grease coating the heart. Mimicking this concept using carbon nanowires could lead to a new type of pacemaker.P46
Concept
Financial Services
Swipe-
Biomimetic Investing
Biomimetic Investing
Honeybee Capital
Katherine Collins of Honeybee Capital proposed an investing framework that uses biological principles to encourage resilient, regenerative, and profitable investing activities.P84
Development -
Artificial Immune System Software
Artificial Immune System Software
Multiple Researchers
Artificial immune systems are inspired by the way higher organism immune systems detect foreign bodies and adapt to rid the body of them. These algorithms are used in computer security, robotics, and fault detection.P21
Development
Food Manufacturing
Swipe-
Passive Fluid Transport
Passive Fluid Transport
Dr. Philip Comanns; Aachen University
With potential applications in fields such as microfluidics, medical applications, and distilleries, this process of passively transporting fluid through interconnecting capillaries on a material’s surface mimics the water retrieving process of Texas horned lizards’ skin.P104
Prototype -
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo uses microbes to grow valuable products. The microorganisms are modified by introducing DNA sequences known to produce industry-relevant materials. The company has focused on sectors including “flavors and fragrance, cosmetics and personal care, and food and nutrition” and recently raised $100 million in Series C funding.P110
In Market -
FE2owlet Fan
FE2owlet Fan
Ziehl-Abegg
Inspired by the silent air movement over barn owl wings, the fan can improve the efficiency of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other ventilators by 15% while also reducing noise levels.P106
In Market -
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
HARBEC, Inc.
Plastics manufacturer HARBEC incorporated internal cooling channels in its molds, mimicking the flow patterns in dicot leaves, to dissipate heat more effectively. The new molds reduce cooling time and energy consumption by more than 20%. The increase in production speed has allowed HARBEC to fulfill tighter turn-around times.P92
In Market -
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development -
Lily Impeller
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
In Market -
Modern Meadow Meat
Modern Meadow Meat
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Modern Meadow is using tissue engineering techniques that prompt animal cells to grow into muscle tissue for meat. This system provides an alternative to environmentally-destructive animal farming.P56
Prototype -
Cardboard to Caviar
Cardboard to Caviar
Graham Wiles
This closed-loop recycling scheme uses waste products like cardboard from restaurants to make products like caviar from farmed sturgeon. The concept could be replicated with other interrelated products to reduce waste and save energy and money.P83
Prototype -
WikiPearls™
WikiPearls™
WikiFoods, Inc.
Inspired by fruit and vegetable peels, WikiPearls™, developed by WikiFoods, Inc., seal food and beverages in bite-sized, edible “wrappers” that obviate plastic packaging.P65
In Market -
Arctic Fish-Inspired Ice Cream
Arctic Fish-Inspired Ice Cream
Unilever
Unilever developed a creamier, low-fat ice cream by adding an ice-structuring protein adopted from an arctic fish. The protein prevents large ice crystals from forming.P95
In Market -
µMist® Platform Technology
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
Development -
Fog Harvesting Mesh
Fog Harvesting Mesh
MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile
Researchers at MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile have designed specialized fog mesh nets that condense and capture 10% of the water in fog, a strategy inspired by how some Chilean organisms collect water from fog.P98
Development -
Tardigrade-Inspired Organ Preservation
Tardigrade-Inspired Organ Preservation
Multiple Researchers
Studying how tardigrades and other organisms undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, could lead to better preservation of organs for transplant.P90
Concept
Glass Products
Swipe-
Passive Fluid Transport
Passive Fluid Transport
Dr. Philip Comanns; Aachen University
With potential applications in fields such as microfluidics, medical applications, and distilleries, this process of passively transporting fluid through interconnecting capillaries on a material’s surface mimics the water retrieving process of Texas horned lizards’ skin.P104
Prototype -
ORNILUX Glass
ORNILUX Glass
Arnold Glas
After studying how birds in flight avoid spider webs, the European glass manufacturer Arnold Glas commercialized ORNILUX, a spider web-patterned UV reflective glass that reduces bird collisions by 77%.P81
In Market -
Vascular Window Cooling
Vascular Window Cooling
Benjamen Hatton, Wyss Institute
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute have created windows with microfluidic channels patterned like vascular circulatory systems.P91
Prototype -
Moth Eye Anti-Reflective Film
Moth Eye Anti-Reflective Film
Multiple Researchers
Anti-reflective films inspired by the moth eye’s microstructure improve solar panel photo absorption by 5 to 10%.P80
In Market -
SLIPS
SLIPS
SLIPS Technologies, Inc.
Inspired by the slippery surface of the pitcher plant, this microscopic coating has applications in anti-fouling, heat exchange, and rapid defrosting. SLIPS Technologies was launched in 2014 after incubation at Harvard’s Wyss Institute.P60
Development -
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Dr. Joanna Aizenberg, Harvard University
Highly fracture-resistant sea sponge spinacles could inspire tougher optical glass fibers manufactured at room temperature.P70
Concept -
Nacre-Inspired Deformable Glass
Nacre-Inspired Deformable Glass
Dr. Francois Barthelat, McGill University
Inspired by the microscopic structure of nacre and teeth, researchers at McGill University developed deformable glass that is 200 times tougher than standard glass due to a pattern of micro-cracks.P48
Concept
Healthcare
Swipe-
Hairprint®
Hairprint®
Hairprint; Warner Babcock Institute
This hair treatment, currently designed for brown or black hair, restores gray hair to its former color. The technology mimics the hair pigmentation process and uses the natural pigment eumelanin that dictates hair color.P102
In Market -
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
Nova Laboratories Ltd.
“Dry” vaccines, created by Nova Laboratories in the U.K., do not require refrigeration. The active materials are encased in a sugar matrix, a technique inspired by organisms that undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation.P93
In Market -
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo uses microbes to grow valuable products. The microorganisms are modified by introducing DNA sequences known to produce industry-relevant materials. The company has focused on sectors including “flavors and fragrance, cosmetics and personal care, and food and nutrition” and recently raised $100 million in Series C funding.P110
In Market -
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development -
SampleMatrix®
SampleMatrix®
Biomatrica, Inc.
The California-based company Biomatrica developed processes akin to anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, to stabilize fragile biological materials like DNA so they can be stored without refrigeration.P94
In Market -
Mother Dirt™
Mother Dirt™
AOBiome
This body spray contains bacteria that convert urea and ammonia in sweat—which is abrasive to the skin, causing acne and irritation—into nitrite, which has anti-inflammatory properties. The spray reduces a user’s dependence on modern hygiene products and replenishes the skin microbiome.P89
In Market -
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Dr. Jeffrey Karp, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Researchers at the Karp Lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts, are developing a sandcastle worm-inspired surgical glue that sets while inside organs.P57
Prototype -
Artificial Immune System Software
Artificial Immune System Software
Multiple Researchers
Artificial immune systems are inspired by the way higher organism immune systems detect foreign bodies and adapt to rid the body of them. These algorithms are used in computer security, robotics, and fault detection.P21
Development -
Sharklet™
Sharklet™
Sharklet Technologies, Inc.
Sharklet™ surface textures are used on products like medical devices, furniture, and cell phone cases. The plastic coatings have microscopic patterns inspired by sharkskin that repel bacteria without perpetuating antibiotic resistance.P64
In Market -
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM, Cornell Tech
Scientists at IBM and Cornell Tech developed a chip inspired by neural networks that increases performance during data-intensive computations and drastically reduces power consumption.P19
Development -
SLIPS
SLIPS
SLIPS Technologies, Inc.
Inspired by the slippery surface of the pitcher plant, this microscopic coating has applications in anti-fouling, heat exchange, and rapid defrosting. SLIPS Technologies was launched in 2014 after incubation at Harvard’s Wyss Institute.P60
Development -
Tardigrade-Inspired Organ Preservation
Tardigrade-Inspired Organ Preservation
Multiple Researchers
Studying how tardigrades and other organisms undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, could lead to better preservation of organs for transplant.P90
Concept -
Moth Eye-Inspired X-Ray Imaging
Moth Eye-Inspired X-Ray Imaging
Dr. Yasha Yi-a, City University of New York
Researchers found that a radial microstructure inspired by moth eyes increases light extraction of X-ray machine scintillators. This finding may enable lower dose radiation for imaging patients.P72
Concept -
Whale Pacemaker
Whale Pacemaker
Jorge Reynolds Pombo
Contractions in humpback whale hearts are controlled by nano-fibers that conduct electrical signals through an otherwise non-conductive grease coating the heart. Mimicking this concept using carbon nanowires could lead to a new type of pacemaker.P46
Concept
Household Goods
Swipe-
Hairprint®
Hairprint®
Hairprint; Warner Babcock Institute
This hair treatment, currently designed for brown or black hair, restores gray hair to its former color. The technology mimics the hair pigmentation process and uses the natural pigment eumelanin that dictates hair color.P102
In Market -
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo uses microbes to grow valuable products. The microorganisms are modified by introducing DNA sequences known to produce industry-relevant materials. The company has focused on sectors including “flavors and fragrance, cosmetics and personal care, and food and nutrition” and recently raised $100 million in Series C funding.P110
In Market -
GreenShield®
GreenShield®
BigSky Technologies
This nanoparticle-based textile finish, inspired by plant leaves, allows water droplets to roll off fabric, carrying along dirt and other particles to create a self-cleaning effect.P107
In Market -
Mother Dirt™
Mother Dirt™
AOBiome
This body spray contains bacteria that convert urea and ammonia in sweat—which is abrasive to the skin, causing acne and irritation—into nitrite, which has anti-inflammatory properties. The spray reduces a user’s dependence on modern hygiene products and replenishes the skin microbiome.P89
In Market -
Interface® Carpet
Interface® Carpet
Interface, Inc.
Global carpet manufacturer Interface developed modular carpet tiles with patterns that can be laid down randomly, without glue, mimicking variegated leaves on a forest floor.P66
In Market -
Converge® Polyols
Converge® Polyols
Novomer
Novomer took inspiration from photosynthetic organisms and developed a process that sequesters carbon by converting waste CO2 and CO into useful chemical polymers.P8 Currently, Ford is developing foams and plastics for its vehicles using the technology.P111
In Market
HVAC & Refrigeration
Swipe-
Passive Fluid Transport
Passive Fluid Transport
Dr. Philip Comanns; Aachen University
With potential applications in fields such as microfluidics, medical applications, and distilleries, this process of passively transporting fluid through interconnecting capillaries on a material’s surface mimics the water retrieving process of Texas horned lizards’ skin.P104
Prototype -
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nanotechnologies, Inc.
NBD Nano is developing a novel hydrophobic coating inspired by the Namibian Desert Beetle’s shell. This coating for condensing tubes in power plants increases heat transfer rate by 200%, and has applications in other industrial processes, thermal desalination, and fog harvesting. NBD Nano is moving into large scale pilot testing.P40
Development -
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
Nova Laboratories Ltd.
“Dry” vaccines, created by Nova Laboratories in the U.K., do not require refrigeration. The active materials are encased in a sugar matrix, a technique inspired by organisms that undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation.P93
In Market -
FE2owlet Fan
FE2owlet Fan
Ziehl-Abegg
Inspired by the silent air movement over barn owl wings, the fan can improve the efficiency of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other ventilators by 15% while also reducing noise levels.P106
In Market -
Swarm Logic™
Swarm Logic™
Encycle
Inspired by bee communication, Encycle’s Swarm Logic™ systems reduce a building’s energy draw, especially during peak hours, by using individual wireless controllers that coordinate when HVAC units power on.P25
In Market -
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
HARBEC, Inc.
Plastics manufacturer HARBEC incorporated internal cooling channels in its molds, mimicking the flow patterns in dicot leaves, to dissipate heat more effectively. The new molds reduce cooling time and energy consumption by more than 20%. The increase in production speed has allowed HARBEC to fulfill tighter turn-around times.P92
In Market -
Lily Impeller
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
In Market -
SampleMatrix®
SampleMatrix®
Biomatrica, Inc.
The California-based company Biomatrica developed processes akin to anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, to stabilize fragile biological materials like DNA so they can be stored without refrigeration.P94
In Market -
IRLens™
IRLens™
Schaefer Ventilation
Schaefer Ventilation’s HotZone® Radiant Heaters rely on a lobster eye-inspired lens that focuses infrared radiation, heating a concentrated area instead of diffusing heat like standard radiant heaters.P79
In Market -
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Dr. Chunlei Guo, University of Rochester
Dr. Chunlei Guo at University of Rochester uses laser processing to produce superwicking materials that enable more efficient air conditioning. Terrapin worked with Dr. Guo to define the market value of his technology and secure funding.P54
Prototype -
Tubercle Technology™
Tubercle Technology™
WhalePower
Inspired by the tubercles found on whale fins, WhalePower developed blades with bumps along the leading edges that allow for very high stall angles. Envira-North Systems in Ontario applied the technology to their high volume, low speed Altra-Air fan.P41
In Market -
Vascular Window Cooling
Vascular Window Cooling
Benjamen Hatton, Wyss Institute
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute have created windows with microfluidic channels patterned like vascular circulatory systems.P91
Prototype -
µMist® Platform Technology
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
Development -
Termite Humidity Damping Device
Termite Humidity Damping Device
Terrapin Bright Green; Dr. Rupert Soar, Freeform Construction Ltd.; Dr. Scott Turner, SUNY-ESF
In collaboration with Terrapin Bright Green, Dr. Rupert Soar and Dr. Scott Turner are developing a passive humidity damping device based on the fungal combs in termite mounds. The device will stabilize humidity in building spaces, reducing a building’s energy demands.P97
Prototype
Industrial Machinery
Swipe-
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nanotechnologies, Inc.
NBD Nano is developing a novel hydrophobic coating inspired by the Namibian Desert Beetle’s shell. This coating for condensing tubes in power plants increases heat transfer rate by 200%, and has applications in other industrial processes, thermal desalination, and fog harvesting. NBD Nano is moving into large scale pilot testing.P40
Development -
500-Series Shinkasen Train
500-Series Shinkasen Train
Eiji Nakatsu
The Japanese bullet train has a pointed nose inspired by the kingfisher’s beak that reduces noise and power consumption while increasing speed.P42
In Market -
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
HARBEC, Inc.
Plastics manufacturer HARBEC incorporated internal cooling channels in its molds, mimicking the flow patterns in dicot leaves, to dissipate heat more effectively. The new molds reduce cooling time and energy consumption by more than 20%. The increase in production speed has allowed HARBEC to fulfill tighter turn-around times.P92
In Market -
Artificial Immune System Software
Artificial Immune System Software
Multiple Researchers
Artificial immune systems are inspired by the way higher organism immune systems detect foreign bodies and adapt to rid the body of them. These algorithms are used in computer security, robotics, and fault detection.P21
Development -
Evolutionary-Designed Antenna
Evolutionary-Designed Antenna
NASA
NASA contractors compared designs for a spacecraft antenna, one of which was developed using an evolutionary algorithm and the other using conventional engineering. The former outperformed the latter in functionality and reduced design time.P22
Development -
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Dr. Shantanu Chakrabartty, Michigan State University
Engineers at Michigan State developed a sensor based on a fly’s ear that accurately detects the source of sounds using a mechanical lever system and neuronal signal processing.P16
Prototype -
Autonomous Swarm Robots
Autonomous Swarm Robots
Dr. Radhika Nagpal, Harvard University
Autonomous robot swarms, developed by researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute, organize themselves into complex shapes using swarm intelligence—a method of computation inspired by swarming organisms like ants, bees, birds, and bacteria.P14
Prototype -
BioWAVE™ Power
BioWAVE™ Power
BioPower Systems
bioWAVE™, a wave energy generator developed by BioPower Systems, mimics the motion of ocean vegetation. The swaying motion generates power through a unique hydraulic system undergoing testing in a 250 kW demonstration project.P31
Development -
Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures
Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures
Ceralink, Inc.
R&D firm Ceralink uses laminated object manufacturing, a rapid prototyping technique, to replicate bioinspired structures for use in clean energy applications. Terrapin worked with Ceralink to secure early-stage funding.P61
Development -
Locust Collision Avoidance
Locust Collision Avoidance
Volvo Car Group
Volvo is investigating how to incorporate the unique collision avoidance abilities of swarming locusts into crash avoidance sensors for cars.P13
Concept
Lighting
Swipe-
IRLens™
IRLens™
Schaefer Ventilation
Schaefer Ventilation’s HotZone® Radiant Heaters rely on a lobster eye-inspired lens that focuses infrared radiation, heating a concentrated area instead of diffusing heat like standard radiant heaters.P79
In Market -
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Dr. Joanna Aizenberg, Harvard University
Highly fracture-resistant sea sponge spinacles could inspire tougher optical glass fibers manufactured at room temperature.P70
Concept
Metal Manufacturing
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OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
Altair
Inspired by the way bones grow, software developer Altair created structural analysis software that uses an evolutionary algorithm to find the optimum shape for components, reducing weight and materials without compromising strength.P24
In Market -
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Dr. Chunlei Guo, University of Rochester
Dr. Chunlei Guo at University of Rochester uses laser processing to produce superwicking materials that enable more efficient air conditioning. Terrapin worked with Dr. Guo to define the market value of his technology and secure funding.P54
Prototype
Mining
Swipe-
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Ltd.
California-based Blue Planet synthesizes cement additives and other green building materials from waste carbon flue streams to make carbon-negative concrete. Terrapin is working with Blue Planet to identify potential demonstration sites in New York State.P6
Development -
RoboClam Excavator
RoboClam Excavator
Dr. Anette Hosoi, MIT
A team at MIT constructed a prototype robotic excavator inspired by the low-drag burrowing of Atlantic razor clams. The excavator could be used for reversible ocean anchoring, subsea cable installation, and ocean sensor placement.P38
Prototype
Oil & Gas
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Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Using waste methane as a feedstock, Mango Materials grows bacteria that naturally produce a biopolymer. This economically competitive material can be used to create biodegradable plastic as well as conventional products like electronic casings, bottles, and children’s toys.P105
Development -
Enzyme-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Enzyme-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Geoff Coates, Cornell University
At Cornell University, Dr. Geoff Coates is developing an enzyme-like catalyst to synthesize biodegradable polyesters produced using significantly less energy than conventional polyester. Terrapin worked closely with Dr. Coates to develop research proposals and secure funding.P51
Prototype -
RoboClam Excavator
RoboClam Excavator
Dr. Anette Hosoi, MIT
A team at MIT constructed a prototype robotic excavator inspired by the low-drag burrowing of Atlantic razor clams. The excavator could be used for reversible ocean anchoring, subsea cable installation, and ocean sensor placement.P38
Prototype -
µMist® Platform Technology
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
Development -
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Products
Headquartered in California, BioWorld sells mixes of specialized bacteria that break down hydrocarbons into less harmful chemicals. These products are authorized by the EPA for use on oil spills.P7
In Market -
Converge® Polyols
Converge® Polyols
Novomer
Novomer took inspiration from photosynthetic organisms and developed a process that sequesters carbon by converting waste CO2 and CO into useful chemical polymers.P8 Currently, Ford is developing foams and plastics for its vehicles using the technology.P111
In Market -
Jellyfish Jet Propulsion
Jellyfish Jet Propulsion
Dr. John Dabiri, CalTech
According to a research team at Caltech, jellyfish-inspired pulsed jet propulsion could be 50% more efficient that existing steady-jet propulsion.P37
Concept -
“V” Formation Flight
“V” Formation Flight
Dr. Ilan Kroo, Stanford University
When moving through fluids, objects in a “V” formation expend less energy than solo objects.P36
Concept -
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Dr. Art Stipanovic, SUNY-ESF
Terrapin helped secure early funding for research by Dr. Stipanovic at SUNY-ESF. He aims to isolate the digestive enzymes of Red Pandas – which efficiently convert biomass to fermentable sugars—for use in biofuel production.P27
Concept -
Keratin-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Keratin-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Chris Nomura, SUNY-ESF
Dr. Nomura at SUNY-ESF is producing low-embodied energy, keratin‐inspired polymers to be used as crosslinking agents in resins and coatings, replacing petroleum‐derived crosslinkers. Terrapin worked with the research team to find applications for the technology and secure funding.P47
Concept -
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Dr. Peter Dinolfo
Terrapin assisted Dr. Dinolfo at RPI in securing funds for research that evaluates the rate and efficacy of an inexpensive catalyst. The catalyst mimics the water-splitting complex in plants and is used in artificial photosynthetic devices, zinc-air batteries, and other oxidation-dependent systems.P2
Concept -
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Dr. Jiandi Wan, RIT
Dr. Wan at RIT is developing a leaf-mimicking microfluidic device to convert CO2 into valuable chemical products like methane and methanol. Terrapin helped secure funding for this project.P3
Concept -
Photosynthetic Foam
Photosynthetic Foam
Dr. David Wendell, University of Cincinnati
Inspired by the tungara frog, which produces long-lasting foam nests, engineers at the University of Cincinnati developed a stable foam from one of the frog’s proteins and combined it with photosynthetic enzymes that convert CO2 to sugars and oxygen.P4
Concept
Optics & Imaging
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Biofilm-Based Technology
Biofilm-Based Technology
Dr. Neel Joshi, Harvard University
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute are expanding modified biofilms into a materials platform, with applications in nanoelectronics, industrial biocatalysis, optically active biological coatings, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation.P50
Prototype -
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM, Cornell Tech
Scientists at IBM and Cornell Tech developed a chip inspired by neural networks that increases performance during data-intensive computations and drastically reduces power consumption.P19
Development -
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Multiple Researchers
Compound insect eyes can detect movement much faster than traditional cameras. This capacity has inspired novel vision sensors for aerial systems, robotics, high-speed inspection in manufacturing, and other applications.P17
Prototype -
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Dr. Radislav Potyrailo, GE Global Research
GE Global Research is using Morpho butterfly wing scale microstructures as inspiration for small, highly sensitive infrared sensors.P76
Development -
Beetle Shell-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Beetle Shell-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Dr. Seung-Yop Lee and Dr. Jungyul Park, Sogang University
Scientists at Sogang University have developed a microporous material inspired by the shell of the Hercules beetle that changes color in response to humidity levels. This material could be used in a low-power humidity sensor.P73
Prototype -
Cephalopod Skin-Inspired Displays
Cephalopod Skin-Inspired Displays
Dr. Roger Hanlon, Marine Biological Laboratory
Inspired by cephalopods, researchers at the Eugene Bell Center in Massachusetts are creating electronic-sensing and color changing sheets. These optical materials may be used in low-power electronic displays.P74
Prototype -
Seed-Inspired Color Changing Fibers
Seed-Inspired Color Changing Fibers
Dr. Mathias Kolle, MIT
After studying the photonic properties of the Margaritaria nobilius seed, researchers at MIT developed fibers that change color when stretched.P75
Prototype -
Fibonacci Solar Power Plant
Fibonacci Solar Power Plant
Dr. Corey Noone, MIT
Fibonacci spirals are a naturally-occurring strategy for packing many units together efficiently. Engineers at MIT have modeled a Fibonacci sequence for reflectors in concentrated solar plants, creating an arrangement that would theoretically reduce land use by 20%.P12
Concept -
Moth Eye-Inspired X-Ray Imaging
Moth Eye-Inspired X-Ray Imaging
Dr. Yasha Yi-a, City University of New York
Researchers found that a radial microstructure inspired by moth eyes increases light extraction of X-ray machine scintillators. This finding may enable lower dose radiation for imaging patients.P72
Concept -
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Dr. Joanna Aizenberg, Harvard University
Highly fracture-resistant sea sponge spinacles could inspire tougher optical glass fibers manufactured at room temperature.P70
Concept -
Spider Web-Based Optoelectronics
Spider Web-Based Optoelectronics
Dr. Jinwei Gao, South China Normal University
Metallized spider webs perform better than standard optoelectronic arrays and can be stretched without losing performance. This finding by several academic teams paves the way to next-generation flexible touch screens.P71
Concept -
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Dr. Peter Dinolfo
Terrapin assisted Dr. Dinolfo at RPI in securing funds for research that evaluates the rate and efficacy of an inexpensive catalyst. The catalyst mimics the water-splitting complex in plants and is used in artificial photosynthetic devices, zinc-air batteries, and other oxidation-dependent systems.P2
Concept -
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Dr. Jiandi Wan, RIT
Dr. Wan at RIT is developing a leaf-mimicking microfluidic device to convert CO2 into valuable chemical products like methane and methanol. Terrapin helped secure funding for this project.P3
Concept
Paints & Adhesives
Swipe-
ChromaFlair® Paint
ChromaFlair® Paint
JDSU
JDSU, a manufacturer based in California, makes brilliant, color-shifting paints that use the thin-film interference phenomenon found in butterfly wings and seashells. The company’s ChromaFlair® paint is used on cars, sports equipment, and building interiors.P77
In Market -
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Ltd.
California-based Blue Planet synthesizes cement additives and other green building materials from waste carbon flue streams to make carbon-negative concrete. Terrapin is working with Blue Planet to identify potential demonstration sites in New York State.P6
Development -
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Dyesol
Dyesol’s dye-sensitized solar cells, which mimic the electron transport chain in photosynthesis, are printed on thin, flexible plastic using non-toxic, low-energy manufacturing.P78
In Market -
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Dr. Anil Netravali, Cornell University
With assistance from Terrapin, Cornell researcher Dr. Anil Netravali is developing a superhydrophobic coating for high voltage power lines that reduces ice buildup, electrical outages, and costly infrastructure damage during winter storms.P52
Prototype -
Mussel-Inspired Adhesive
Mussel-Inspired Adhesive
Dr. Rich Gross, SyntheZyme
At RPI, Dr. Rich Gross is synthesizing cost-effective, environmentally-friendly bioadhesives designed by mimicking the chemical and mechanistic features of marine mussels’ byssal threads. Terrapin worked with Dr. Gross to differentiate his technology from competitors and secure funding.P53
Prototype -
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Dr. Jeffrey Karp, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Researchers at the Karp Lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts, are developing a sandcastle worm-inspired surgical glue that sets while inside organs.P57
Prototype -
Sharklet™
Sharklet™
Sharklet Technologies, Inc.
Sharklet™ surface textures are used on products like medical devices, furniture, and cell phone cases. The plastic coatings have microscopic patterns inspired by sharkskin that repel bacteria without perpetuating antibiotic resistance.P64
In Market -
µMist® Platform Technology
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
Development -
StoCoat Lotusan®
StoCoat Lotusan®
Sto Corp.
Building products manufacturer Sto Corp. developed a hydrophobic acrylic paint that mimics the self-cleaning properties of the lotus leaf.P67
In Market -
PureBond®
PureBond®
Columbia Forest Products
Developed by Columbia Forest Products, this soy-based glue mimics mussel adhesive. The North American panel manufacturer uses PureBond to laminate plywood without added formaldehyde.P68
In Market -
SLIPS
SLIPS
SLIPS Technologies, Inc.
Inspired by the slippery surface of the pitcher plant, this microscopic coating has applications in anti-fouling, heat exchange, and rapid defrosting. SLIPS Technologies was launched in 2014 after incubation at Harvard’s Wyss Institute.P60
Development -
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Nature Inspired Industries; Dr. David Kisailus (UC Riverside)
The developers of this highly impact-resistant composite material—inspired by the hard club of the Mantis shrimp—received an acquisition offer that provided initial seed investors a 10x return in only 18 months.P49
Development
Pharmaceuticals
Swipe-
Hairprint®
Hairprint®
Hairprint; Warner Babcock Institute
This hair treatment, currently designed for brown or black hair, restores gray hair to its former color. The technology mimics the hair pigmentation process and uses the natural pigment eumelanin that dictates hair color.P102
In Market -
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
Nova Laboratories Ltd.
“Dry” vaccines, created by Nova Laboratories in the U.K., do not require refrigeration. The active materials are encased in a sugar matrix, a technique inspired by organisms that undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation.P93
In Market -
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo uses microbes to grow valuable products. The microorganisms are modified by introducing DNA sequences known to produce industry-relevant materials. The company has focused on sectors including “flavors and fragrance, cosmetics and personal care, and food and nutrition” and recently raised $100 million in Series C funding.P110
In Market -
SampleMatrix®
SampleMatrix®
Biomatrica, Inc.
The California-based company Biomatrica developed processes akin to anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, to stabilize fragile biological materials like DNA so they can be stored without refrigeration.P94
In Market -
Mother Dirt™
Mother Dirt™
AOBiome
This body spray contains bacteria that convert urea and ammonia in sweat—which is abrasive to the skin, causing acne and irritation—into nitrite, which has anti-inflammatory properties. The spray reduces a user’s dependence on modern hygiene products and replenishes the skin microbiome.P89
In Market -
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Dr. Melik Demirel; Penn State
Inspired by the mechanical properties of squid teeth, engineers created a polymer that can heal itself in the presence of warm water and slight pressure. This product may be applied in medical implants, textiles, cosmetics, and other applications where self-healing polymers are valuable.P109
Prototype -
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Dr. Jeffrey Karp, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Researchers at the Karp Lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts, are developing a sandcastle worm-inspired surgical glue that sets while inside organs.P57
Prototype -
Whale Pacemaker
Whale Pacemaker
Jorge Reynolds Pombo
Contractions in humpback whale hearts are controlled by nano-fibers that conduct electrical signals through an otherwise non-conductive grease coating the heart. Mimicking this concept using carbon nanowires could lead to a new type of pacemaker.P46
Concept
Plastic Products
Swipe-
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
Altair
Inspired by the way bones grow, software developer Altair created structural analysis software that uses an evolutionary algorithm to find the optimum shape for components, reducing weight and materials without compromising strength.P24
In Market -
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Using waste methane as a feedstock, Mango Materials grows bacteria that naturally produce a biopolymer. This economically competitive material can be used to create biodegradable plastic as well as conventional products like electronic casings, bottles, and children’s toys.P105
Development -
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
HARBEC, Inc.
Plastics manufacturer HARBEC incorporated internal cooling channels in its molds, mimicking the flow patterns in dicot leaves, to dissipate heat more effectively. The new molds reduce cooling time and energy consumption by more than 20%. The increase in production speed has allowed HARBEC to fulfill tighter turn-around times.P92
In Market -
Enzyme-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Enzyme-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Geoff Coates, Cornell University
At Cornell University, Dr. Geoff Coates is developing an enzyme-like catalyst to synthesize biodegradable polyesters produced using significantly less energy than conventional polyester. Terrapin worked closely with Dr. Coates to develop research proposals and secure funding.P51
Prototype -
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Tree-Inspired Super Wicking Materials
Dr. Chunlei Guo, University of Rochester
Dr. Chunlei Guo at University of Rochester uses laser processing to produce superwicking materials that enable more efficient air conditioning. Terrapin worked with Dr. Guo to define the market value of his technology and secure funding.P54
Prototype -
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Dr. Melik Demirel; Penn State
Inspired by the mechanical properties of squid teeth, engineers created a polymer that can heal itself in the presence of warm water and slight pressure. This product may be applied in medical implants, textiles, cosmetics, and other applications where self-healing polymers are valuable.P109
Prototype -
Mushroom® Materials
Mushroom® Materials
Ecovative
Ecovative grows mycelium in molds filled with agricultural waste. The fungi bind the waste fibers together into a solid mass, which is heat treated to produce a biodegradable alternative to harmful synthetic packaging and other products.P62
In Market -
Sharklet™
Sharklet™
Sharklet Technologies, Inc.
Sharklet™ surface textures are used on products like medical devices, furniture, and cell phone cases. The plastic coatings have microscopic patterns inspired by sharkskin that repel bacteria without perpetuating antibiotic resistance.P64
In Market -
Converge® Polyols
Converge® Polyols
Novomer
Novomer took inspiration from photosynthetic organisms and developed a process that sequesters carbon by converting waste CO2 and CO into useful chemical polymers.P8 Currently, Ford is developing foams and plastics for its vehicles using the technology.P111
In Market -
Keratin-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Keratin-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Chris Nomura, SUNY-ESF
Dr. Nomura at SUNY-ESF is producing low-embodied energy, keratin‐inspired polymers to be used as crosslinking agents in resins and coatings, replacing petroleum‐derived crosslinkers. Terrapin worked with the research team to find applications for the technology and secure funding.P47
Concept -
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Nature Inspired Industries; Dr. David Kisailus (UC Riverside)
The developers of this highly impact-resistant composite material—inspired by the hard club of the Mantis shrimp—received an acquisition offer that provided initial seed investors a 10x return in only 18 months.P49
Development
Power Generation, Distribution & Storage
Swipe-
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nanotechnologies, Inc.
NBD Nano is developing a novel hydrophobic coating inspired by the Namibian Desert Beetle’s shell. This coating for condensing tubes in power plants increases heat transfer rate by 200%, and has applications in other industrial processes, thermal desalination, and fog harvesting. NBD Nano is moving into large scale pilot testing.P40
Development -
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Symbiosis
In Kalundborg, Denmark, over 16 industrial facilities and farms in close proximity exchange materials and energy. One plant’s waste becomes another’s raw material, saving about $15 million a year.P88
In Market -
Biofilm-Based Technology
Biofilm-Based Technology
Dr. Neel Joshi, Harvard University
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute are expanding modified biofilms into a materials platform, with applications in nanoelectronics, industrial biocatalysis, optically active biological coatings, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation.P50
Prototype -
FE2owlet Fan
FE2owlet Fan
Ziehl-Abegg
Inspired by the silent air movement over barn owl wings, the fan can improve the efficiency of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other ventilators by 15% while also reducing noise levels.P106
In Market -
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Dyesol
Dyesol’s dye-sensitized solar cells, which mimic the electron transport chain in photosynthesis, are printed on thin, flexible plastic using non-toxic, low-energy manufacturing.P78
In Market -
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development -
Lily Impeller
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
In Market -
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Dr. Anil Netravali, Cornell University
With assistance from Terrapin, Cornell researcher Dr. Anil Netravali is developing a superhydrophobic coating for high voltage power lines that reduces ice buildup, electrical outages, and costly infrastructure damage during winter storms.P52
Prototype -
Tubercle Technology™
Tubercle Technology™
WhalePower
Inspired by the tubercles found on whale fins, WhalePower developed blades with bumps along the leading edges that allow for very high stall angles. Envira-North Systems in Ontario applied the technology to their high volume, low speed Altra-Air fan.P41
In Market -
Schooling Fish Wind Farms
Schooling Fish Wind Farms
Dr. John Dabiri, CalTech
Engineers at Caltech developed algorithms inspired by schooling fish that decrease the amount of space required for vertical axis wind farms without compromising individual turbine efficiency.P39
Development -
Moth Eye Anti-Reflective Film
Moth Eye Anti-Reflective Film
Multiple Researchers
Anti-reflective films inspired by the moth eye’s microstructure improve solar panel photo absorption by 5 to 10%.P80
In Market -
µMist® Platform Technology
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
Development -
BioWAVE™ Power
BioWAVE™ Power
BioPower Systems
bioWAVE™, a wave energy generator developed by BioPower Systems, mimics the motion of ocean vegetation. The swaying motion generates power through a unique hydraulic system undergoing testing in a 250 kW demonstration project.P31
Development -
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Energy
Ohio-based Pilus Energy, a subsidiary of Tauriga Sciences, is currently pilot testing its microbial fuel cell technology. As modified bacteria break down organics in wastewater, they produce electricity, treated water, and useful chemical compounds.P32
Development -
bioSTREAM™ Power
bioSTREAM™ Power
BioPower Systems
BioPower Systems in Australia is developing fishtail-inspired modules that generate power from tidal currents. The fin of each module pivots relative to the direction of the current, creating a swimming motion that generates an electric current.P29
Prototype -
Electric Eel BattCell
Electric Eel BattCell
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors, Inc.
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors claims that their patented BattCell prototype, inspired by the electric eel, uses a biomimetic membrane to enhance its power density beyond other fuel cell technologies.P28
Prototype -
Voltaic Pile
Voltaic Pile
Alessandro Volta
Studies of the electric Torpedo ray and frog leg nerve responses led Alessandro Volta to build the first battery, the Voltaic pile, by stacking metal and salt-soaked discs in a similar arrangement to the discs within the fish’s electric organ.P33
In Market -
Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures
Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures
Ceralink, Inc.
R&D firm Ceralink uses laminated object manufacturing, a rapid prototyping technique, to replicate bioinspired structures for use in clean energy applications. Terrapin worked with Ceralink to secure early-stage funding.P61
Development -
Aquaporin Inside™
Aquaporin Inside™
Aquaporin A/S
Aquaporin A/S is pilot testing a membrane system embedded with biological water channels that can filter water using 80% less energy than conventional processes.P100
In Market -
Sahara Forest Project
Sahara Forest Project
Exploration Architecture
The Sahara Forest Project, proposed by British firm Exploration Architecture, combines evaporation from Seawater Greenhouses (see Water) with excess heat from adjacent concentrated solar plants in order to create moist microclimates that curb desertification.P82
Concept -
Fibonacci Solar Power Plant
Fibonacci Solar Power Plant
Dr. Corey Noone, MIT
Fibonacci spirals are a naturally-occurring strategy for packing many units together efficiently. Engineers at MIT have modeled a Fibonacci sequence for reflectors in concentrated solar plants, creating an arrangement that would theoretically reduce land use by 20%.P12
Concept -
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Dr. Art Stipanovic, SUNY-ESF
Terrapin helped secure early funding for research by Dr. Stipanovic at SUNY-ESF. He aims to isolate the digestive enzymes of Red Pandas – which efficiently convert biomass to fermentable sugars—for use in biofuel production.P27
Concept -
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Cambrian Innovation
The prestin protein in animal ears converts vibrations into electrical signals. IntAct Labs, now Cambrian Innovation, embedded prestin proteins into “skins” that generate electricity from movement and wind.P26
Concept -
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Dr. Peter Dinolfo
Terrapin assisted Dr. Dinolfo at RPI in securing funds for research that evaluates the rate and efficacy of an inexpensive catalyst. The catalyst mimics the water-splitting complex in plants and is used in artificial photosynthetic devices, zinc-air batteries, and other oxidation-dependent systems.P2
Concept -
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Dr. Jiandi Wan, RIT
Dr. Wan at RIT is developing a leaf-mimicking microfluidic device to convert CO2 into valuable chemical products like methane and methanol. Terrapin helped secure funding for this project.P3
Concept -
Photosynthetic Foam
Photosynthetic Foam
Dr. David Wendell, University of Cincinnati
Inspired by the tungara frog, which produces long-lasting foam nests, engineers at the University of Cincinnati developed a stable foam from one of the frog’s proteins and combined it with photosynthetic enzymes that convert CO2 to sugars and oxygen.P4
Concept
Software
Swipe-
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
Altair
Inspired by the way bones grow, software developer Altair created structural analysis software that uses an evolutionary algorithm to find the optimum shape for components, reducing weight and materials without compromising strength.P24
In Market -
Swarm Logic™
Swarm Logic™
Encycle
Inspired by bee communication, Encycle’s Swarm Logic™ systems reduce a building’s energy draw, especially during peak hours, by using individual wireless controllers that coordinate when HVAC units power on.P25
In Market -
Ant-Based Plane Guidance
Ant-Based Plane Guidance
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines developed an ant-inspired computing algorithm that drastically reduces the amount of time planes wait for gates to open at airports.P23
In Market -
Ant-Based Distribution Algorithm
Ant-Based Distribution Algorithm
Nu Tech Software Solutions, Inc.
Bios Group, now NuTech Solutions, studied ant foraging to develop a logistics algorithm for industrial supplier Air Liquide. Air Liquide uses the algorithm to manage plant scheduling, weather, and deliveries, which has yielded substantial time and cost savings.P20
Development -
Honey Bee Web Hosting
Honey Bee Web Hosting
Dr. Craig Tovey, Georgia Tech
Researchers at Georgia Tech developed an internet server system that adapts to user demand the way bees adapt to changing food sources: by communicating the new locations back to the hive. The system increased one web hosting company’s revenues by 20%.P18
Development -
Artificial Immune System Software
Artificial Immune System Software
Multiple Researchers
Artificial immune systems are inspired by the way higher organism immune systems detect foreign bodies and adapt to rid the body of them. These algorithms are used in computer security, robotics, and fault detection.P21
Development -
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM, Cornell Tech
Scientists at IBM and Cornell Tech developed a chip inspired by neural networks that increases performance during data-intensive computations and drastically reduces power consumption.P19
Development -
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Dr. Shantanu Chakrabartty, Michigan State University
Engineers at Michigan State developed a sensor based on a fly’s ear that accurately detects the source of sounds using a mechanical lever system and neuronal signal processing.P16
Prototype -
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Multiple Researchers
Compound insect eyes can detect movement much faster than traditional cameras. This capacity has inspired novel vision sensors for aerial systems, robotics, high-speed inspection in manufacturing, and other applications.P17
Prototype -
DNA Data Storage
DNA Data Storage
Dr. George Church, Harvard University
Scientists at Harvard’s Wyss Institute coded 700 terabytes of data into less than one gram of DNA. The scientists believe that with further improvements, all the world’s data (1.8 zettabytes) could theoretically be stored in about 4 grams of DNA.P15
Prototype -
Autonomous Swarm Robots
Autonomous Swarm Robots
Dr. Radhika Nagpal, Harvard University
Autonomous robot swarms, developed by researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute, organize themselves into complex shapes using swarm intelligence—a method of computation inspired by swarming organisms like ants, bees, birds, and bacteria.P14
Prototype -
Locust Collision Avoidance
Locust Collision Avoidance
Volvo Car Group
Volvo is investigating how to incorporate the unique collision avoidance abilities of swarming locusts into crash avoidance sensors for cars.P13
Concept -
Bat-Nav System
Bat-Nav System
Dr. Arseny Finklestein, Weizmann Institute of Science
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute in Israel found that bats track their positions in three dimensions using a donut-shaped coordinate system, which could inspire a new navigation system.P9
Concept -
DNA-Based Computing
DNA-Based Computing
Multiple Researchers
DNA-based computers could theoretically use chemical base pairs as “switches.” This would enable a much more space-efficient, non-toxic form of computing that would pack the computing power of the most powerful supercomputer into a drop of water.P10
Concept
Telecommunication
Swipe-
Honey Bee Web Hosting
Honey Bee Web Hosting
Dr. Craig Tovey, Georgia Tech
Researchers at Georgia Tech developed an internet server system that adapts to user demand the way bees adapt to changing food sources: by communicating the new locations back to the hive. The system increased one web hosting company’s revenues by 20%.P18
Development -
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM, Cornell Tech
Scientists at IBM and Cornell Tech developed a chip inspired by neural networks that increases performance during data-intensive computations and drastically reduces power consumption.P19
Development -
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Dr. Shantanu Chakrabartty, Michigan State University
Engineers at Michigan State developed a sensor based on a fly’s ear that accurately detects the source of sounds using a mechanical lever system and neuronal signal processing.P16
Prototype -
DNA-Based Computing
DNA-Based Computing
Multiple Researchers
DNA-based computers could theoretically use chemical base pairs as “switches.” This would enable a much more space-efficient, non-toxic form of computing that would pack the computing power of the most powerful supercomputer into a drop of water.P10
Concept -
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Dr. Joanna Aizenberg, Harvard University
Highly fracture-resistant sea sponge spinacles could inspire tougher optical glass fibers manufactured at room temperature.P70
Concept
Textiles & Apparel
Swipe-
BioKnit Shoes
BioKnit Shoes
Ammo Liao Design
Similar to the strategy seen in many organisms where a limited number of substances are specifically used to produce materials with diverse mechanical properties, the shoe’s manufacturing process uses a single material to create a recyclable shoe that features varying levels of softness, strength, and flexibility.P108
Prototype -
GreenShield®
GreenShield®
BigSky Technologies
This nanoparticle-based textile finish, inspired by plant leaves, allows water droplets to roll off fabric, carrying along dirt and other particles to create a self-cleaning effect.P107
In Market -
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Dr. Melik Demirel; Penn State
Inspired by the mechanical properties of squid teeth, engineers created a polymer that can heal itself in the presence of warm water and slight pressure. This product may be applied in medical implants, textiles, cosmetics, and other applications where self-healing polymers are valuable.P109
Prototype -
Interface® Carpet
Interface® Carpet
Interface, Inc.
Global carpet manufacturer Interface developed modular carpet tiles with patterns that can be laid down randomly, without glue, mimicking variegated leaves on a forest floor.P66
In Market -
VELCRO® Fasteners
VELCRO® Fasteners
Velcro Industries
This ubiquitous fastener was inspired by the miniature hooks on seed burrs that allow them to cling to looped fabric.P69
In Market -
Engineered Silk
Engineered Silk
Bolt Threads
Inspired by spider silk, Bolt Threads spins yeast-produced proteins into silk. These fibers–made from water, sugar, and salts–can provide garments and fabrics with greater durability and strength. The company raised $50 million in its Series C funding round.P103
Development -
Modern Meadow Leather
Modern Meadow Leather
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Biotech startup Modern Meadow uses advanced tissue engineering techniques to make lab-grown leather that is analogous to leather produced from animals.P59
Development
Transportation
Swipe-
500-Series Shinkasen Train
500-Series Shinkasen Train
Eiji Nakatsu
The Japanese bullet train has a pointed nose inspired by the kingfisher’s beak that reduces noise and power consumption while increasing speed.P42
In Market -
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
OptiStruct® Structural Optimization
Altair
Inspired by the way bones grow, software developer Altair created structural analysis software that uses an evolutionary algorithm to find the optimum shape for components, reducing weight and materials without compromising strength.P24
In Market -
Ant-Based Plane Guidance
Ant-Based Plane Guidance
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines developed an ant-inspired computing algorithm that drastically reduces the amount of time planes wait for gates to open at airports.P23
In Market -
Ant-Based Distribution Algorithm
Ant-Based Distribution Algorithm
Nu Tech Software Solutions, Inc.
Bios Group, now NuTech Solutions, studied ant foraging to develop a logistics algorithm for industrial supplier Air Liquide. Air Liquide uses the algorithm to manage plant scheduling, weather, and deliveries, which has yielded substantial time and cost savings.P20
Development -
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM, Cornell Tech
Scientists at IBM and Cornell Tech developed a chip inspired by neural networks that increases performance during data-intensive computations and drastically reduces power consumption.P19
Development -
RoboClam Excavator
RoboClam Excavator
Dr. Anette Hosoi, MIT
A team at MIT constructed a prototype robotic excavator inspired by the low-drag burrowing of Atlantic razor clams. The excavator could be used for reversible ocean anchoring, subsea cable installation, and ocean sensor placement.P38
Prototype -
µMist® Platform Technology
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
Development -
Locust Collision Avoidance
Locust Collision Avoidance
Volvo Car Group
Volvo is investigating how to incorporate the unique collision avoidance abilities of swarming locusts into crash avoidance sensors for cars.P13
Concept -
Bat-Nav System
Bat-Nav System
Dr. Arseny Finklestein, Weizmann Institute of Science
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute in Israel found that bats track their positions in three dimensions using a donut-shaped coordinate system, which could inspire a new navigation system.P9
Concept -
Jellyfish Jet Propulsion
Jellyfish Jet Propulsion
Dr. John Dabiri, CalTech
According to a research team at Caltech, jellyfish-inspired pulsed jet propulsion could be 50% more efficient that existing steady-jet propulsion.P37
Concept -
Snake-Inspired Flight
Snake-Inspired Flight
Dr. Jake Socha, Virginia Tech
The tree snake Chrysopelea glides from tree to tree by flattening its body and swaying in the air. DARPA funded research on Chrysopelea for possible military applications.P35
Concept -
“V” Formation Flight
“V” Formation Flight
Dr. Ilan Kroo, Stanford University
When moving through fluids, objects in a “V” formation expend less energy than solo objects.P36
Concept -
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Dr. Peter Dinolfo
Terrapin assisted Dr. Dinolfo at RPI in securing funds for research that evaluates the rate and efficacy of an inexpensive catalyst. The catalyst mimics the water-splitting complex in plants and is used in artificial photosynthetic devices, zinc-air batteries, and other oxidation-dependent systems.P2
Concept -
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Dr. Jiandi Wan, RIT
Dr. Wan at RIT is developing a leaf-mimicking microfluidic device to convert CO2 into valuable chemical products like methane and methanol. Terrapin helped secure funding for this project.P3
Concept
Utilities
Swipe-
Passive Fluid Transport
Passive Fluid Transport
Dr. Philip Comanns; Aachen University
With potential applications in fields such as microfluidics, medical applications, and distilleries, this process of passively transporting fluid through interconnecting capillaries on a material’s surface mimics the water retrieving process of Texas horned lizards’ skin.P104
Prototype -
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Symbiosis
In Kalundborg, Denmark, over 16 industrial facilities and farms in close proximity exchange materials and energy. One plant’s waste becomes another’s raw material, saving about $15 million a year.P88
In Market -
FE2owlet Fan
FE2owlet Fan
Ziehl-Abegg
Inspired by the silent air movement over barn owl wings, the fan can improve the efficiency of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other ventilators by 15% while also reducing noise levels.P106
In Market -
Swarm Logic™
Swarm Logic™
Encycle
Inspired by bee communication, Encycle’s Swarm Logic™ systems reduce a building’s energy draw, especially during peak hours, by using individual wireless controllers that coordinate when HVAC units power on.P25
In Market -
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development -
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Dr. Anil Netravali, Cornell University
With assistance from Terrapin, Cornell researcher Dr. Anil Netravali is developing a superhydrophobic coating for high voltage power lines that reduces ice buildup, electrical outages, and costly infrastructure damage during winter storms.P52
Prototype -
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Multiple Researchers
Compound insect eyes can detect movement much faster than traditional cameras. This capacity has inspired novel vision sensors for aerial systems, robotics, high-speed inspection in manufacturing, and other applications.P17
Prototype -
Schooling Fish Wind Farms
Schooling Fish Wind Farms
Dr. John Dabiri, CalTech
Engineers at Caltech developed algorithms inspired by schooling fish that decrease the amount of space required for vertical axis wind farms without compromising individual turbine efficiency.P39
Development -
BioWAVE™ Power
BioWAVE™ Power
BioPower Systems
bioWAVE™, a wave energy generator developed by BioPower Systems, mimics the motion of ocean vegetation. The swaying motion generates power through a unique hydraulic system undergoing testing in a 250 kW demonstration project.P31
Development -
bioSTREAM™ Power
bioSTREAM™ Power
BioPower Systems
BioPower Systems in Australia is developing fishtail-inspired modules that generate power from tidal currents. The fin of each module pivots relative to the direction of the current, creating a swimming motion that generates an electric current.P29
Prototype -
Fibonacci Solar Power Plant
Fibonacci Solar Power Plant
Dr. Corey Noone, MIT
Fibonacci spirals are a naturally-occurring strategy for packing many units together efficiently. Engineers at MIT have modeled a Fibonacci sequence for reflectors in concentrated solar plants, creating an arrangement that would theoretically reduce land use by 20%.P12
Concept -
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Dr. Peter Dinolfo
Terrapin assisted Dr. Dinolfo at RPI in securing funds for research that evaluates the rate and efficacy of an inexpensive catalyst. The catalyst mimics the water-splitting complex in plants and is used in artificial photosynthetic devices, zinc-air batteries, and other oxidation-dependent systems.P2
Concept -
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Dr. Jiandi Wan, RIT
Dr. Wan at RIT is developing a leaf-mimicking microfluidic device to convert CO2 into valuable chemical products like methane and methanol. Terrapin helped secure funding for this project.P3
Concept
Warehouse & Distribution
Swipe-
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Symbiosis
In Kalundborg, Denmark, over 16 industrial facilities and farms in close proximity exchange materials and energy. One plant’s waste becomes another’s raw material, saving about $15 million a year.P88
In Market -
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
Nova Laboratories Ltd.
“Dry” vaccines, created by Nova Laboratories in the U.K., do not require refrigeration. The active materials are encased in a sugar matrix, a technique inspired by organisms that undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation.P93
In Market -
Ant-Based Plane Guidance
Ant-Based Plane Guidance
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines developed an ant-inspired computing algorithm that drastically reduces the amount of time planes wait for gates to open at airports.P23
In Market -
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development -
SampleMatrix®
SampleMatrix®
Biomatrica, Inc.
The California-based company Biomatrica developed processes akin to anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, to stabilize fragile biological materials like DNA so they can be stored without refrigeration.P94
In Market -
Ant-Based Distribution Algorithm
Ant-Based Distribution Algorithm
Nu Tech Software Solutions, Inc.
Bios Group, now NuTech Solutions, studied ant foraging to develop a logistics algorithm for industrial supplier Air Liquide. Air Liquide uses the algorithm to manage plant scheduling, weather, and deliveries, which has yielded substantial time and cost savings.P20
Development
Waste Management
Swipe-
Aquaponic Systems
Aquaponic Systems
Multiple Companies
Hydroponics and fish farming are combined based on the symbiotic flow of nutrients between the fish and plants. Fish waste provides nutrients to the plants, which filter the water for the fish.P86
In Market -
Eco-Machine®
Eco-Machine®
John Todd Ecological Design
John Todd Ecological Design uses constructed wetlands and aquatic tanks containing various microbes, plants, and aquatic animals to filter wastewater.P87
In Market -
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Symbiosis
In Kalundborg, Denmark, over 16 industrial facilities and farms in close proximity exchange materials and energy. One plant’s waste becomes another’s raw material, saving about $15 million a year.P88
In Market -
Biofilm-Based Technology
Biofilm-Based Technology
Dr. Neel Joshi, Harvard University
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute are expanding modified biofilms into a materials platform, with applications in nanoelectronics, industrial biocatalysis, optically active biological coatings, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation.P50
Prototype -
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Using waste methane as a feedstock, Mango Materials grows bacteria that naturally produce a biopolymer. This economically competitive material can be used to create biodegradable plastic as well as conventional products like electronic casings, bottles, and children’s toys.P105
Development -
Cardboard to Caviar
Cardboard to Caviar
Graham Wiles
This closed-loop recycling scheme uses waste products like cardboard from restaurants to make products like caviar from farmed sturgeon. The concept could be replicated with other interrelated products to reduce waste and save energy and money.P83
Prototype -
Mushroom® Materials
Mushroom® Materials
Ecovative
Ecovative grows mycelium in molds filled with agricultural waste. The fungi bind the waste fibers together into a solid mass, which is heat treated to produce a biodegradable alternative to harmful synthetic packaging and other products.P62
In Market -
WikiPearls™
WikiPearls™
WikiFoods, Inc.
Inspired by fruit and vegetable peels, WikiPearls™, developed by WikiFoods, Inc., seal food and beverages in bite-sized, edible “wrappers” that obviate plastic packaging.P65
In Market -
Biolytix®
Biolytix®
Biolytix
Biolytix markets a household wastewater treatment system that relies on worms and other organisms to filter water and break down sewage. The system uses no toxic chemicals and 90% less energy than conventional aerated sewage treatment systems.P101
In Market -
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Products
Headquartered in California, BioWorld sells mixes of specialized bacteria that break down hydrocarbons into less harmful chemicals. These products are authorized by the EPA for use on oil spills.P7
In Market -
Sahara Forest Project
Sahara Forest Project
Exploration Architecture
The Sahara Forest Project, proposed by British firm Exploration Architecture, combines evaporation from Seawater Greenhouses (see Water) with excess heat from adjacent concentrated solar plants in order to create moist microclimates that curb desertification.P82
Concept -
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Dr. Art Stipanovic, SUNY-ESF
Terrapin helped secure early funding for research by Dr. Stipanovic at SUNY-ESF. He aims to isolate the digestive enzymes of Red Pandas – which efficiently convert biomass to fermentable sugars—for use in biofuel production.P27
Concept -
Enzymatic Toxin Remediation
Enzymatic Toxin Remediation
Dr. Jim Spain, Georgia Tech
Scientists at Georgia Tech patented the use of biological enzymes that break down harmful carbon compounds into valuable chemicals.P5
Prototype
Water Treatment
Swipe-
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nanotechnologies, Inc.
NBD Nano is developing a novel hydrophobic coating inspired by the Namibian Desert Beetle’s shell. This coating for condensing tubes in power plants increases heat transfer rate by 200%, and has applications in other industrial processes, thermal desalination, and fog harvesting. NBD Nano is moving into large scale pilot testing.P40
Development -
Aquaponic Systems
Aquaponic Systems
Multiple Companies
Hydroponics and fish farming are combined based on the symbiotic flow of nutrients between the fish and plants. Fish waste provides nutrients to the plants, which filter the water for the fish.P86
In Market -
Eco-Machine®
Eco-Machine®
John Todd Ecological Design
John Todd Ecological Design uses constructed wetlands and aquatic tanks containing various microbes, plants, and aquatic animals to filter wastewater.P87
In Market -
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Symbiosis
In Kalundborg, Denmark, over 16 industrial facilities and farms in close proximity exchange materials and energy. One plant’s waste becomes another’s raw material, saving about $15 million a year.P88
In Market -
Phoebe Framework
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development -
Lily Impeller
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
In Market -
µMist® Platform Technology
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
Development -
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Energy
Ohio-based Pilus Energy, a subsidiary of Tauriga Sciences, is currently pilot testing its microbial fuel cell technology. As modified bacteria break down organics in wastewater, they produce electricity, treated water, and useful chemical compounds.P32
Development -
Aquaporin Inside™
Aquaporin Inside™
Aquaporin A/S
Aquaporin A/S is pilot testing a membrane system embedded with biological water channels that can filter water using 80% less energy than conventional processes.P100
In Market -
Biolytix®
Biolytix®
Biolytix
Biolytix markets a household wastewater treatment system that relies on worms and other organisms to filter water and break down sewage. The system uses no toxic chemicals and 90% less energy than conventional aerated sewage treatment systems.P101
In Market -
Seawater Greenhouse
Seawater Greenhouse
Seawater Greenhouses Ltd. and Sundrop Farms Pty. Ltd.
Inspired by the way the Namib beetle collects water from fog, Seawater Greenhouses use cold seawater, air movement and solar radiation to condense and collect fresh water for crops.P99
Development -
Fog Harvesting Mesh
Fog Harvesting Mesh
MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile
Researchers at MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile have designed specialized fog mesh nets that condense and capture 10% of the water in fog, a strategy inspired by how some Chilean organisms collect water from fog.P98
Development -
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Products
Headquartered in California, BioWorld sells mixes of specialized bacteria that break down hydrocarbons into less harmful chemicals. These products are authorized by the EPA for use on oil spills.P7
In Market -
Cactus-Inspired Fog Harvesting
Cactus-Inspired Fog Harvesting
Dr. Jie Ju & Dr. Hao Bai, Chinese Academy of Sciences
The spines of the cactus Opuntia microdasys have specialized structures that can collect and funnel fog droplets into its base, prompting interest in fog harvesting devices that mimic the spines’ structures.P96
Concept
Wood Products
Swipe-
Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall
Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall
Achim Menges, University of Stuttgart
Taking inspiration from the material-efficient structures of organisms like sand dollars, architect Achim Menges constructed a bubble-like pavilion using interlocking timber panels.P55
Prototype -
PureBond®
PureBond®
Columbia Forest Products
Developed by Columbia Forest Products, this soy-based glue mimics mussel adhesive. The North American panel manufacturer uses PureBond to laminate plywood without added formaldehyde.P68
In Market
Market Readiness of Select Bioinspired Technologies
Carbon
Water
Materials
Energy Conversion & Storage
Optics & Photonics
Thermo-regulation
Fluid Dynamics
Data & Computing
Systems
Concept
Protein-Mediated Calcite Ceramics
Dr. Colin Freeman, University of Sheffield
Some organisms control calcite deposition to build complex structures like eggs–a process that could inspire precise ceramic manufacturing techniques.P1
Biomimetic Water-Splitting Catalyst
Dr. Peter Dinolfo
Terrapin assisted Dr. Dinolfo at RPI in securing funds for research that evaluates the rate and efficacy of an inexpensive catalyst. The catalyst mimics the water-splitting complex in plants and is used in artificial photosynthetic devices, zinc-air batteries, and other oxidation-dependent systems.P2
Leaf-Mimicking Artificial Photosynthesis
Dr. Jiandi Wan, RIT
Dr. Wan at RIT is developing a leaf-mimicking microfluidic device to convert CO2 into valuable chemical products like methane and methanol. Terrapin helped secure funding for this project.P3
Photosynthetic Foam
Dr. David Wendell, University of Cincinnati
Inspired by the tungara frog, which produces long-lasting foam nests, engineers at the University of Cincinnati developed a stable foam from one of the frog’s proteins and combined it with photosynthetic enzymes that convert CO2 to sugars and oxygen.P4
Cactus-Inspired Fog Harvesting
Dr. Jie Ju & Dr. Hao Bai, Chinese Academy of Sciences
The spines of the cactus Opuntia microdasys have specialized structures that can collect and funnel fog droplets into its base, prompting interest in fog harvesting devices that mimic the spines’ structures.P96
Bacteria-Inspired Adhesive
Dr. Jay Tang, Brown University
The bacterium Caulobacter crescentus produces a biodegradable, waterproof adhesive with greater strain resistance than commercial super glues. Dr. Jay Tang at Brown University believes that mimicking its chemistry could yield a nontoxic glue that adheres underwater.P44
Spider Silk Fibers
Multiple Researchers
Spider silk has high tensile strength, extensibility and toughness compared to synthetic fibers like Kevlar and nylon. Researchers are investigating how to produce similar fibers for extremely strong threads, cords, and cables.P45
Whale Pacemaker
Jorge Reynolds Pombo
Contractions in humpback whale hearts are controlled by nano-fibers that conduct electrical signals through an otherwise non-conductive grease coating the heart. Mimicking this concept using carbon nanowires could lead to a new type of pacemaker.P46
Keratin-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Chris Nomura, SUNY-ESF
Dr. Nomura at SUNY-ESF is producing low-embodied energy, keratin‐inspired polymers to be used as crosslinking agents in resins and coatings, replacing petroleum‐derived crosslinkers. Terrapin worked with the research team to find applications for the technology and secure funding.P47
Nacre-Inspired Deformable Glass
Dr. Francois Barthelat, McGill University
Inspired by the microscopic structure of nacre and teeth, researchers at McGill University developed deformable glass that is 200 times tougher than standard glass due to a pattern of micro-cracks.P48
Ear Protein-Inspired Power
Cambrian Innovation
The prestin protein in animal ears converts vibrations into electrical signals. IntAct Labs, now Cambrian Innovation, embedded prestin proteins into “skins” that generate electricity from movement and wind.P26
Red Panda Biofuel Enzymes
Dr. Art Stipanovic, SUNY-ESF
Terrapin helped secure early funding for research by Dr. Stipanovic at SUNY-ESF. He aims to isolate the digestive enzymes of Red Pandas – which efficiently convert biomass to fermentable sugars—for use in biofuel production.P27
Sea Sponge Glass Fibers
Dr. Joanna Aizenberg, Harvard University
Highly fracture-resistant sea sponge spinacles could inspire tougher optical glass fibers manufactured at room temperature.P70
Spider Web-Based Optoelectronics
Dr. Jinwei Gao, South China Normal University
Metallized spider webs perform better than standard optoelectronic arrays and can be stretched without losing performance. This finding by several academic teams paves the way to next-generation flexible touch screens.P71
Moth Eye-Inspired X-Ray Imaging
Dr. Yasha Yi-a, City University of New York
Researchers found that a radial microstructure inspired by moth eyes increases light extraction of X-ray machine scintillators. This finding may enable lower dose radiation for imaging patients.P72
Tardigrade-Inspired Organ Preservation
Multiple Researchers
Studying how tardigrades and other organisms undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, could lead to better preservation of organs for transplant.P90
Cactus-Inspired High-Rises
Dr. Chris Letchford, RPI
Inspired by the saguaro cactus, Dr. Letchford at RPI is studying the aerodynamics of vertically-grooved, slender cylinders to define optimal geometries for reduced wind loading on tall buildings.P34
Snake-Inspired Flight
Dr. Jake Socha, Virginia Tech
The tree snake Chrysopelea glides from tree to tree by flattening its body and swaying in the air. DARPA funded research on Chrysopelea for possible military applications.P35
“V” Formation Flight
Dr. Ilan Kroo, Stanford University
When moving through fluids, objects in a “V” formation expend less energy than solo objects.P36
Jellyfish Jet Propulsion
Dr. John Dabiri, CalTech
According to a research team at Caltech, jellyfish-inspired pulsed jet propulsion could be 50% more efficient that existing steady-jet propulsion.P37
Bat-Nav System
Dr. Arseny Finklestein, Weizmann Institute of Science
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute in Israel found that bats track their positions in three dimensions using a donut-shaped coordinate system, which could inspire a new navigation system.P9
DNA-Based Computing
Multiple Researchers
DNA-based computers could theoretically use chemical base pairs as “switches.” This would enable a much more space-efficient, non-toxic form of computing that would pack the computing power of the most powerful supercomputer into a drop of water.P10
Venus Flytrap Electrical Switches
Multiple Researchers
Trigger hairs inside the leaf of the carnivorous Venus flytrap act like electrical switches; when two are stimulated by an insect, the leaf closes. Such switches could inspire electrical devices made from abundant, non-toxic chemicals.P11
Fibonacci Solar Power Plant
Dr. Corey Noone, MIT
Fibonacci spirals are a naturally-occurring strategy for packing many units together efficiently. Engineers at MIT have modeled a Fibonacci sequence for reflectors in concentrated solar plants, creating an arrangement that would theoretically reduce land use by 20%.P12
Locust Collision Avoidance
Volvo Car Group
Volvo is investigating how to incorporate the unique collision avoidance abilities of swarming locusts into crash avoidance sensors for cars.P13
Sahara Forest Project
Exploration Architecture
The Sahara Forest Project, proposed by British firm Exploration Architecture, combines evaporation from Seawater Greenhouses (see Water) with excess heat from adjacent concentrated solar plants in order to create moist microclimates that curb desertification.P82
Concept
Prototype
Enzymatic Toxin Remediation
Dr. Jim Spain, Georgia Tech
Scientists at Georgia Tech patented the use of biological enzymes that break down harmful carbon compounds into valuable chemicals.P5
Passive Fluid Transport
Dr. Philip Comanns; Aachen University
With potential applications in fields such as microfluidics, medical applications, and distilleries, this process of passively transporting fluid through interconnecting capillaries on a material’s surface mimics the water retrieving process of Texas horned lizards’ skin.P104
Termite Humidity Damping Device
Terrapin Bright Green; Dr. Rupert Soar, Freeform Construction Ltd.; Dr. Scott Turner, SUNY-ESF
In collaboration with Terrapin Bright Green, Dr. Rupert Soar and Dr. Scott Turner are developing a passive humidity damping device based on the fungal combs in termite mounds. The device will stabilize humidity in building spaces, reducing a building’s energy demands.P97
Biofilm-Based Technology
Dr. Neel Joshi, Harvard University
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute are expanding modified biofilms into a materials platform, with applications in nanoelectronics, industrial biocatalysis, optically active biological coatings, microbial fuel cells, and bioremediation.P50
Enzyme-Inspired Polymer Synthesis
Dr. Geoff Coates, Cornell University
At Cornell University, Dr. Geoff Coates is developing an enzyme-like catalyst to synthesize biodegradable polyesters produced using significantly less energy than conventional polyester. Terrapin worked closely with Dr. Coates to develop research proposals and secure funding.P51
Lotus Leaf-Inspired Coating
Dr. Anil Netravali, Cornell University
With assistance from Terrapin, Cornell researcher Dr. Anil Netravali is developing a superhydrophobic coating for high voltage power lines that reduces ice buildup, electrical outages, and costly infrastructure damage during winter storms.P52
Mussel-Inspired Adhesive
Dr. Rich Gross, SyntheZyme
At RPI, Dr. Rich Gross is synthesizing cost-effective, environmentally-friendly bioadhesives designed by mimicking the chemical and mechanistic features of marine mussels’ byssal threads. Terrapin worked with Dr. Gross to differentiate his technology from competitors and secure funding.P53
Squid-Inspired Self-Healing Polymer
Dr. Melik Demirel; Penn State
Inspired by the mechanical properties of squid teeth, engineers created a polymer that can heal itself in the presence of warm water and slight pressure. This product may be applied in medical implants, textiles, cosmetics, and other applications where self-healing polymers are valuable.P109
BioKnit Shoes
Ammo Liao Design
Similar to the strategy seen in many organisms where a limited number of substances are specifically used to produce materials with diverse mechanical properties, the shoe’s manufacturing process uses a single material to create a recyclable shoe that features varying levels of softness, strength, and flexibility.P108
Landesgartenschau Exhibition Hall
Achim Menges, University of Stuttgart
Taking inspiration from the material-efficient structures of organisms like sand dollars, architect Achim Menges constructed a bubble-like pavilion using interlocking timber panels.P55
Modern Meadow Meat
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Modern Meadow is using tissue engineering techniques that prompt animal cells to grow into muscle tissue for meat. This system provides an alternative to environmentally-destructive animal farming.P56
Worm-Inspired Surgical Glue
Dr. Jeffrey Karp, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Researchers at the Karp Lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts, are developing a sandcastle worm-inspired surgical glue that sets while inside organs.P57
Electric Eel BattCell
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors, Inc.
Advanced Biomimetic Sensors claims that their patented BattCell prototype, inspired by the electric eel, uses a biomimetic membrane to enhance its power density beyond other fuel cell technologies.P28
bioSTREAM™ Power
BioPower Systems
BioPower Systems in Australia is developing fishtail-inspired modules that generate power from tidal currents. The fin of each module pivots relative to the direction of the current, creating a swimming motion that generates an electric current.P29
Beetle Shell-Inspired Humidity Sensor
Dr. Seung-Yop Lee and Dr. Jungyul Park, Sogang University
Scientists at Sogang University have developed a microporous material inspired by the shell of the Hercules beetle that changes color in response to humidity levels. This material could be used in a low-power humidity sensor.P73
Cephalopod Skin-Inspired Displays
Dr. Roger Hanlon, Marine Biological Laboratory
Inspired by cephalopods, researchers at the Eugene Bell Center in Massachusetts are creating electronic-sensing and color changing sheets. These optical materials may be used in low-power electronic displays.P74
Seed-Inspired Color Changing Fibers
Dr. Mathias Kolle, MIT
After studying the photonic properties of the Margaritaria nobilius seed, researchers at MIT developed fibers that change color when stretched.P75
Vascular Window Cooling
Benjamen Hatton, Wyss Institute
Researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute have created windows with microfluidic channels patterned like vascular circulatory systems.P91
RoboClam Excavator
Dr. Anette Hosoi, MIT
A team at MIT constructed a prototype robotic excavator inspired by the low-drag burrowing of Atlantic razor clams. The excavator could be used for reversible ocean anchoring, subsea cable installation, and ocean sensor placement.P38
DNA Data Storage
Dr. George Church, Harvard University
Scientists at Harvard’s Wyss Institute coded 700 terabytes of data into less than one gram of DNA. The scientists believe that with further improvements, all the world’s data (1.8 zettabytes) could theoretically be stored in about 4 grams of DNA.P15
Autonomous Swarm Robots
Dr. Radhika Nagpal, Harvard University
Autonomous robot swarms, developed by researchers at Harvard’s Wyss Institute, organize themselves into complex shapes using swarm intelligence—a method of computation inspired by swarming organisms like ants, bees, birds, and bacteria.P14
Fly Ear Acoustic Sensor
Dr. Shantanu Chakrabartty, Michigan State University
Engineers at Michigan State developed a sensor based on a fly’s ear that accurately detects the source of sounds using a mechanical lever system and neuronal signal processing.P16
Insect Eye Vision Sensor
Multiple Researchers
Compound insect eyes can detect movement much faster than traditional cameras. This capacity has inspired novel vision sensors for aerial systems, robotics, high-speed inspection in manufacturing, and other applications.P17
Cardboard to Caviar
Graham Wiles
This closed-loop recycling scheme uses waste products like cardboard from restaurants to make products like caviar from farmed sturgeon. The concept could be replicated with other interrelated products to reduce waste and save energy and money.P83
Prototype
Development
Blue Planet Green Building Materials
Blue Planet Ltd.
California-based Blue Planet synthesizes cement additives and other green building materials from waste carbon flue streams to make carbon-negative concrete. Terrapin is working with Blue Planet to identify potential demonstration sites in New York State.P6
Mango Materials
Mango Materials
Using waste methane as a feedstock, Mango Materials grows bacteria that naturally produce a biopolymer. This economically competitive material can be used to create biodegradable plastic as well as conventional products like electronic casings, bottles, and children’s toys.P105
Fog Harvesting Mesh
MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile
Researchers at MIT and Pontifical Catholic University of Chile have designed specialized fog mesh nets that condense and capture 10% of the water in fog, a strategy inspired by how some Chilean organisms collect water from fog.P98
NBD Nano Hydrophobic Coatings
NBD Nanotechnologies, Inc.
NBD Nano is developing a novel hydrophobic coating inspired by the Namibian Desert Beetle’s shell. This coating for condensing tubes in power plants increases heat transfer rate by 200%, and has applications in other industrial processes, thermal desalination, and fog harvesting. NBD Nano is moving into large scale pilot testing.P40
Seawater Greenhouse
Seawater Greenhouses Ltd. and Sundrop Farms Pty. Ltd.
Inspired by the way the Namib beetle collects water from fog, Seawater Greenhouses use cold seawater, air movement and solar radiation to condense and collect fresh water for crops.P99
Modern Meadow Leather
Modern Meadow, Inc.
Biotech startup Modern Meadow uses advanced tissue engineering techniques to make lab-grown leather that is analogous to leather produced from animals.P59
SLIPS
SLIPS Technologies, Inc.
Inspired by the slippery surface of the pitcher plant, this microscopic coating has applications in anti-fouling, heat exchange, and rapid defrosting. SLIPS Technologies was launched in 2014 after incubation at Harvard’s Wyss Institute.P60
Bioinspired Hierarchical Structures
Ceralink, Inc.
R&D firm Ceralink uses laminated object manufacturing, a rapid prototyping technique, to replicate bioinspired structures for use in clean energy applications. Terrapin worked with Ceralink to secure early-stage funding.P61
Engineered Silk
Bolt Threads
Inspired by spider silk, Bolt Threads spins yeast-produced proteins into silk. These fibers–made from water, sugar, and salts–can provide garments and fabrics with greater durability and strength. The company raised $50 million in its Series C funding round.P103
Shrimp-Inspired Composite Material
Nature Inspired Industries; Dr. David Kisailus (UC Riverside)
The developers of this highly impact-resistant composite material—inspired by the hard club of the Mantis shrimp—received an acquisition offer that provided initial seed investors a 10x return in only 18 months.P49
µMist® Platform Technology
Swedish Biomimetics 3000 Ltd.
Licensed to Swedish Biomimetics 3000, μMist® Platform Technology mimics the high velocity spray valve of the Bombardier Beetle to vaporize liquids using lower pressure than conventional systems. μMist could lead to more efficient combustion engines.P30
BioWAVE™ Power
BioPower Systems
bioWAVE™, a wave energy generator developed by BioPower Systems, mimics the motion of ocean vegetation. The swaying motion generates power through a unique hydraulic system undergoing testing in a 250 kW demonstration project.P31
Pilus Cell™
Pilus Energy
Ohio-based Pilus Energy, a subsidiary of Tauriga Sciences, is currently pilot testing its microbial fuel cell technology. As modified bacteria break down organics in wastewater, they produce electricity, treated water, and useful chemical compounds.P32
Butterfly-Inspired IR Sensor
Dr. Radislav Potyrailo, GE Global Research
GE Global Research is using Morpho butterfly wing scale microstructures as inspiration for small, highly sensitive infrared sensors.P76
Schooling Fish Wind Farms
Dr. John Dabiri, CalTech
Engineers at Caltech developed algorithms inspired by schooling fish that decrease the amount of space required for vertical axis wind farms without compromising individual turbine efficiency.P39
Honey Bee Web Hosting
Dr. Craig Tovey, Georgia Tech
Researchers at Georgia Tech developed an internet server system that adapts to user demand the way bees adapt to changing food sources: by communicating the new locations back to the hive. The system increased one web hosting company’s revenues by 20%.P18
IBM SyNAPSE Chip
IBM, Cornell Tech
Scientists at IBM and Cornell Tech developed a chip inspired by neural networks that increases performance during data-intensive computations and drastically reduces power consumption.P19
Ant-Based Distribution Algorithm
Nu Tech Software Solutions, Inc.
Bios Group, now NuTech Solutions, studied ant foraging to develop a logistics algorithm for industrial supplier Air Liquide. Air Liquide uses the algorithm to manage plant scheduling, weather, and deliveries, which has yielded substantial time and cost savings.P20
Artificial Immune System Software
Multiple Researchers
Artificial immune systems are inspired by the way higher organism immune systems detect foreign bodies and adapt to rid the body of them. These algorithms are used in computer security, robotics, and fault detection.P21
Evolutionary-Designed Antenna
NASA
NASA contractors compared designs for a spacecraft antenna, one of which was developed using an evolutionary algorithm and the other using conventional engineering. The former outperformed the latter in functionality and reduced design time.P22
Biomimetic Investing
Honeybee Capital
Katherine Collins of Honeybee Capital proposed an investing framework that uses biological principles to encourage resilient, regenerative, and profitable investing activities.P84
Phoebe Framework
Terrapin Bright Green
Created by Terrapin, the Framework for the Built Ecological Environment, or “Phoebe Framework,” is a suite of tools that use ecosystem-based assessment to: connect humans to natural systems; establish ecological functions and processes on-site, aligning the built environment to regional ecosystems; and integrate larger ecosystem impacts into planning and decision making. Phoebe merges sustainable design with environmental planning, industrial ecology, and restoration ecology.P85
Development
In Market
BioWorld™ Oil Spill Bioremediation
BioWorld™ Products
Headquartered in California, BioWorld sells mixes of specialized bacteria that break down hydrocarbons into less harmful chemicals. These products are authorized by the EPA for use on oil spills.P7
Converge® Polyols
Novomer
Novomer took inspiration from photosynthetic organisms and developed a process that sequesters carbon by converting waste CO2 and CO into useful chemical polymers.P8 Currently, Ford is developing foams and plastics for its vehicles using the technology.P111
Aquaporin Inside™
Aquaporin A/S
Aquaporin A/S is pilot testing a membrane system embedded with biological water channels that can filter water using 80% less energy than conventional processes.P100
Biolytix®
Biolytix
Biolytix markets a household wastewater treatment system that relies on worms and other organisms to filter water and break down sewage. The system uses no toxic chemicals and 90% less energy than conventional aerated sewage treatment systems.P101
Biocement™ Bricks
bioMASON
Combining sand, bacteria, nutrients, a nitrogen source, a calcium source, and water, biotech startup bioMASON “grows” bricks by leveraging the bacteria’s metabolic activities, which cause calcium carbonate to cement the sand together without firing.P58 The company has started licensing their technology so bricks can be manufactured on-demand at a construction site.
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo Bioworks
Ginkgo uses microbes to grow valuable products. The microorganisms are modified by introducing DNA sequences known to produce industry-relevant materials. The company has focused on sectors including “flavors and fragrance, cosmetics and personal care, and food and nutrition” and recently raised $100 million in Series C funding.P110
GreenShield®
BigSky Technologies
This nanoparticle-based textile finish, inspired by plant leaves, allows water droplets to roll off fabric, carrying along dirt and other particles to create a self-cleaning effect.P107
Mother Dirt™
AOBiome
This body spray contains bacteria that convert urea and ammonia in sweat—which is abrasive to the skin, causing acne and irritation—into nitrite, which has anti-inflammatory properties. The spray reduces a user’s dependence on modern hygiene products and replenishes the skin microbiome.P89
Mushroom® Materials
Ecovative
Ecovative grows mycelium in molds filled with agricultural waste. The fungi bind the waste fibers together into a solid mass, which is heat treated to produce a biodegradable alternative to harmful synthetic packaging and other products.P62
Sharklet™
Sharklet Technologies, Inc.
Sharklet™ surface textures are used on products like medical devices, furniture, and cell phone cases. The plastic coatings have microscopic patterns inspired by sharkskin that repel bacteria without perpetuating antibiotic resistance.P64
WikiPearls™
WikiFoods, Inc.
Inspired by fruit and vegetable peels, WikiPearls™, developed by WikiFoods, Inc., seal food and beverages in bite-sized, edible “wrappers” that obviate plastic packaging.P65
Hairprint®
Hairprint; Warner Babcock Institute
This hair treatment, currently designed for brown or black hair, restores gray hair to its former color. The technology mimics the hair pigmentation process and uses the natural pigment eumelanin that dictates hair color.P102
Interface® Carpet
Interface, Inc.
Global carpet manufacturer Interface developed modular carpet tiles with patterns that can be laid down randomly, without glue, mimicking variegated leaves on a forest floor.P66
StoCoat Lotusan®
Sto Corp.
Building products manufacturer Sto Corp. developed a hydrophobic acrylic paint that mimics the self-cleaning properties of the lotus leaf.P67
PureBond®
Columbia Forest Products
Developed by Columbia Forest Products, this soy-based glue mimics mussel adhesive. The North American panel manufacturer uses PureBond to laminate plywood without added formaldehyde.P68
VELCRO® Fasteners
Velcro Industries
This ubiquitous fastener was inspired by the miniature hooks on seed burrs that allow them to cling to looped fabric.P69
Voltaic Pile
Alessandro Volta
Studies of the electric Torpedo ray and frog leg nerve responses led Alessandro Volta to build the first battery, the Voltaic pile, by stacking metal and salt-soaked discs in a similar arrangement to the discs within the fish’s electric organ.P33
ChromaFlair® Paint
JDSU
JDSU, a manufacturer based in California, makes brilliant, color-shifting paints that use the thin-film interference phenomenon found in butterfly wings and seashells. The company’s ChromaFlair® paint is used on cars, sports equipment, and building interiors.P77
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Dyesol
Dyesol’s dye-sensitized solar cells, which mimic the electron transport chain in photosynthesis, are printed on thin, flexible plastic using non-toxic, low-energy manufacturing.P78
IRLens™
Schaefer Ventilation
Schaefer Ventilation’s HotZone® Radiant Heaters rely on a lobster eye-inspired lens that focuses infrared radiation, heating a concentrated area instead of diffusing heat like standard radiant heaters.P79
ORNILUX Glass
Arnold Glas
After studying how birds in flight avoid spider webs, the European glass manufacturer Arnold Glas commercialized ORNILUX, a spider web-patterned UV reflective glass that reduces bird collisions by 77%.P81
Moth Eye Anti-Reflective Film
Multiple Researchers
Anti-reflective films inspired by the moth eye’s microstructure improve solar panel photo absorption by 5 to 10%.P80
HydRIS® Dry Vaccines
Nova Laboratories Ltd.
“Dry” vaccines, created by Nova Laboratories in the U.K., do not require refrigeration. The active materials are encased in a sugar matrix, a technique inspired by organisms that undergo anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation.P93
Leaf-Inspired Injection Molds
HARBEC, Inc.
Plastics manufacturer HARBEC incorporated internal cooling channels in its molds, mimicking the flow patterns in dicot leaves, to dissipate heat more effectively. The new molds reduce cooling time and energy consumption by more than 20%. The increase in production speed has allowed HARBEC to fulfill tighter turn-around times.P92
SampleMatrix®
Biomatrica, Inc.
The California-based company Biomatrica developed processes akin to anhydrobiosis, or extreme desiccation, to stabilize fragile biological materials like DNA so they can be stored without refrigeration.P94
Arctic Fish-Inspired Ice Cream
Unilever
Unilever developed a creamier, low-fat ice cream by adding an ice-structuring protein adopted from an arctic fish. The protein prevents large ice crystals from forming.P95
Tubercle Technology™
WhalePower
Inspired by the tubercles found on whale fins, WhalePower developed blades with bumps along the leading edges that allow for very high stall angles. Envira-North Systems in Ontario applied the technology to their high volume, low speed Altra-Air fan.P41
500-Series Shinkasen Train
Eiji Nakatsu
The Japanese bullet train has a pointed nose inspired by the kingfisher’s beak that reduces noise and power consumption while increasing speed.P42
FE2owlet Fan
Ziehl-Abegg
Inspired by the silent air movement over barn owl wings, the fan can improve the efficiency of air conditioners, refrigerators, and other ventilators by 15% while also reducing noise levels.P106
Lily Impeller
PAX Scientific
The form of the Lily Impeller, a highly efficient industrial mixer designed by PAX Scientific, was inspired by the aerodynamic shape of bird wings, rotating maple seeds, and other natural structures.P43
Ant-Based Plane Guidance
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines developed an ant-inspired computing algorithm that drastically reduces the amount of time planes wait for gates to open at airports.P23
Swarm Logic™
Encycle
Inspired by bee communication, Encycle’s Swarm Logic™ systems reduce a building’s energy draw, especially during peak hours, by using individual wireless controllers that coordinate when HVAC units power on.P25
Aquaponic Systems
Multiple Companies
Hydroponics and fish farming are combined based on the symbiotic flow of nutrients between the fish and plants. Fish waste provides nutrients to the plants, which filter the water for the fish.P86
Eco-Machine®
John Todd Ecological Design
John Todd Ecological Design uses constructed wetlands and aquatic tanks containing various microbes, plants, and aquatic animals to filter wastewater.P87
Kalundborg Industrial Symbiosis
Kalundborg Symbiosis
In Kalundborg, Denmark, over 16 industrial facilities and farms in close proximity exchange materials and energy. One plant’s waste becomes another’s raw material, saving about $15 million a year.P88
In Market
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Advanced Materials
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Agriculture
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Arts & Entertainment
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Building Construction
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Wood Products
Bioinspired Innovation: An Economic Engine
This section was prepared for Terrapin by the Fermanian Business & Economic Institute. It forecasts the economic impact that bioinspired innovation will have on gross domestic product and job growth by 2030 ($425 billion and 2 million jobs, respectively). Recent research and publications have established the Institute as a thought leader on the economic potential of bioinspired innovation. The Institute is a strategic unit of Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California.
It is becoming increasingly clear that innovation and technological breakthroughs are not only keys to economic growth in the twenty-first century but also are necessary for human prosperity. The millions of materials and systems found in nature are a treasure trove of innovation, and companies can benefit by using these designs to reduce the time and costs associated with technology and product development. New channels of innovation, new products and markets, increased efficiency, and sustainability goals can all be realized through bioinspired innovation.
Many companies have profitably pursued the path of biologically-inspired innovation. Biomatrica, a rapidly growing biotechnology company, licenses a system for preserving and stabilizing biological samples based on processes observed in brine shrimp. Interface, the world’s largest manufacturer of carpet tiles, developed its best-selling product line by mimicking the random colors and patterns of the forest floor. PAX Scientific—founded on the insight that human hearts, birds in flight, and falling maple seeds use vortices to move fluid efficiently—has designed and sold their vortex water technologies to more than 1,000 customers, greatly reducing energy consumption at each installation.
While some concepts inspired by nature may disrupt existing markets, others may open up entirely new ones, as was the case with Qualcomm, which acquired the company Iridigm to form Qualcomm MEMS Technologies, or QMT. QMT developed low power, color display screens that can be viewed in full sunlight, a technology inspired by the way light interacts with the surface of butterfly wings. In recent years, the technology has been used in e-readers and smartwatches, allowing Qualcomm to enter into the electronic display market.
Sustainability initiatives are often driven by governmental regulations or the whims of individual managers. However, regulations can shift when economic growth or jobs appear to be in jeopardy, and a firm’s management team may serve only a limited tenure. Shareholders will always look at underlying returns and profitability, but individuals and investment firms are increasingly considering environmental and social concerns. Bioinspiration offers a bridge between the seemingly incompatible interests of business and the environment. It is a compelling “win-win” approach: bioinspired innovation enables businesses to realize profit while also achieving sustainability goals.
TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT
Bioinspired innovation has the potential to transform large segments of the U.S. economy by increasing both gross domestic product (GDP) and employment. The Fermanian Business & Economic Institute (Institute) estimates that bioinspired innovation could account for approximately $425 billion of U.S. GDP by 2030 (valued in 2013 dollars). Beyond 2030, the impact of bioinspired innovation is expected to grow as knowledge and awareness of the field expand.
The industries shown in Figure 1 represent the majority of the $425 billion that bioinspired innovation will contribute to 2030 GDP. The largest single-industry contributions are expected in building construction (including the cement and concrete sector), chemical manufacturing, and the power generation, distribution, and storage sectors. Some of the largest impacts of bioinspired innovation will occur in the manufacture of durable and nondurable goods due to the increased use of new bioinspired materials and processes. Also, there is a strong link between bioinspired innovation and energy; the transportation, oil and gas, and utility industries all stand to benefit from, or be transformed by, bioinspired innovation. In total, these sectors represent $113 billion—more than a quarter of the total forecasted GDP related to bioinspired innovation.
While bioinspired products will impact the economic performance of fields as diverse as transportation, electronics, and food manufacturing, they will also increase employment in these sectors. Reflecting the expected penetration in various industries, bioinspired innovation could generate approximately 2 million jobs by 2030 (see Figure 2).
TRACKING ACTIVITY IN BIOINSPIRED INNOVATION
The Da Vinci Index 2.0, which was created by the Institute, is derived from a comprehensive database that uses advanced methodology and information to measure activity in bioinspiration, biomimicry, and biomimetics. The Index monitors the number of U.S. patents issued, scholarly articles published, grants awarded by the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health, and the value of those grants for any given period. By extension, the Index offers insight into technologies in development at universities, research labs, and corporations. Granular data within the Index provides information on which fields of study are receiving the most attention and which regions of the world are most active in bioinspired innovation.
The Da Vinci Index 2.0 (see Figure 3) is estimated to have reached a record high of just over 900 in 2014 (where the year 2000 equals 100), mainly due to a surge in published scholarly articles and steady growth of patents. The strong trend indicates the continued growth of bioinspired research and technology development. Compared to the keen interest recently expressed in “green tech,” bioinspired innovation offers less risk since it is less reliant on varying regulations (e.g., mandates for alternative energy sources or reduced pollution) and subsidies, which also fluctuate. As with any cutting-edge research, the challenge is to transition from compelling preliminary studies and ideas to tangible implementation and commercialization.
While total utility patent applications in the U.S. increased about 100% between 2000 and 2014, bioinspired patent activity has been much more active. Utility patents in the U.S. related to bioinspired innovation grew by nearly 750% relative to 2000 filings. Though investment returns for the bioinspired products developed from these applications will vary, investors looking for new ideas and investment opportunities will direct increasing amounts of capital to the field as it becomes better known through documented successes.
THE FUTURE OF BIOINSPIRED INNOVATION
Although bioinspired innovation holds enormous potential for the global economy, it still has far to go to fulfill its promise of transforming large portions of our economy. The vast majority of Americans, including company leaders and government policymakers, are not yet familiar with the idea of looking to nature to solve human challenges.
Bioinspired innovation clearly represents an appealing niche for financial and investment markets. It is an area that the Institute expects will provide sizable growth and profit opportunities to companies and financial service providers alike.
Carbon
Carbon is an integral part of life’s “economy.” Unlike the anthropogenic buildup of carbon in the atmosphere and ocean, carbon is used by organisms to accomplish functions, and it is exchanged in cyclic flows between organisms and regional ecosystems. The abundance of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) should be viewed as a ubiquitous resource and business opportunity.9 Achieving goals like New York State’s 80% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, relative to 2010 levels, will require not only easily achievable measures, such as retrofitting existing buildings to reduce energy use-related emissions, but also new strategies such as reusing carbon to ensure a prosperous low-carbon economy.10 If properly funded, these additional reduction measures will come from bioinspired technology.
Copyright: Stanley Sagov / Flickr
Industries:
Advanced Materials | Arts & Entertainment | Biotechnology | Building Construction | Cement & Concrete | Chemical Manufacturing | Houshold Goods | Mining | Oil & Gas | Optics & Imaging | Paints & Adhesives | Plastic Products | Power Generation, Distribution & Storage | Transportation | Utilities | Waste Management | Water Treatment
See GraphSelected Strategies
Capture
Copyright: Steve Jurvetson / Flickr.
Carbon in the form of CO2 is captured by a large subset of organisms in our ecosystems. Plants, algae, and cyanobacteria—all primary producers—supply the base layer of materials, or carbon feedstocks, to the ecosystem. Similarly, technologies currently in development will allow industry to capture carbon emissions directly from waste flue streams. GHG emissions produced by our economy can be captured and integrated into our existing material stream, moving us toward a cyclic carbon economy. Systems and materials that use waste carbon, such as Blue Planet’s carbon-sequestering concrete, will create a much needed “sink” in the global carbon cycle and represent a huge economic opportunity for companies who accomplish this feat.11
The sequestration of carbon occurs in life’s materials; all organisms are composed of carbon-based materials. The temporary storage of carbon in the ecosystem varies from days to eons, but carbon always moves through a cyclic process. In contrast, most of our synthetic materials and fuel move linearly from fossilized carbon to landfills, oceans, and the atmosphere. Companies and researchers are mimicking natural carbon storage by incorporating waste carbon into valuable fuels, polymers, and construction materials that comprise billion-dollar markets. Artificial photosynthesis is one such innovation that is beginning to tap and even expand these markets.
Carbon is cycled from molecule to molecule across organisms, incorporated into materials to meet various needs; the use of carbon is intimately connected to the storage of carbon. Often, stored carbon (whether from fossil or living sources) acts as a building block and as a temporary vessel for energy, allowing organisms to intake, store, and later use the carbon molecules as a material feedstock and chemical energy. Innovative companies, such as Novomer, are beginning to use waste CO2-derived molecules when creating materials.12
Existing Products
Blue Planet ProductsThe production of one ton of cement typically results in the emission of approximately one ton of CO2.13 With the annual global production of cement at roughly 4 billion tons, the construction industry is a major carbon emitter.14 California-based Blue Planet has developed a technology that captures CO2 from flue gas and creates carbonate minerals to replace the Portland cement or aggregate components of concrete, or to be used in other green building materials. Their low temperature and low pressure process is inspired by the biomineralization of corals, which use dissolved CO2 to grow solid reefs. The Blue Planet process has overcome the high capital and operating costs of similar technologies. When paired with a cement or coal plant’s flue stream, the technology can produce concrete that is carbon negative. Scaled globally, Blue Planet could sequester more than 10 billion tons of CO2 over the next decade.15 This type of technology is needed to reduce the 5-7% of global CO2 emissions attributed to cement production and beyond.16 Pilot scale operations are underway in the U.S.; Terrapin is working with Blue Planet to identify potential sites in New York State.
Conventional plastics, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, consist of chains of carbon atoms derived from petroleum. Novomer, a chemical company based in Massachusetts and New York, has taken inspiration from the carbon cycle in photosynthetic organisms and developed technologies that capture and utilize waste carbon monoxide (CO) and CO2 in the creation of valuable polymers and chemical intermediates. Their proprietary catalyst enables the low temperature (~35°C/95°F) and low pressure incorporation of CO2 into the molecular backbone of plastics, resulting in a CO2/CO-derived carbon content of 50%.17 Novomer’s Converge® materials boast high performance metrics and cost competitiveness. After scaling to a production rate of thousands of tons per year, their products are currently being used in commercial applications by Ford Motor Company and by several adhesive and polyurethane manufacturers, including Germany-based Jowat AG