Butterfly Inspired Chitin is a Sustainable Smart Biomaterial
A Butterfly’s First Flight Inspires a New Way to Produce Force and Electricity
Tags: Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore, Electronics & Robotics, Healthcare & Lifesciences
Inspired by the natural properties of butterfly wings, SUTD researchers have developed chitin-based films that can generate mechanical and electrical energy through humidity changes. This sustainable material, mirroring the butterfly's wing dynamics during metamorphosis, holds promise for engineering and biomedical applications, such as artificial muscles and energy harvesting. The study demonstrates chitin's adaptability and potential in creating eco-friendly alternatives to conventional materials. By harnessing chitin's inherent capabilities, this innovation paves the way for sustainable technological advancements, echoing the efficiency of nature's designs.
IP Type or Form Factor: Discovery & Research; Material
TRL: 4 - minimum viable product built in lab
Industry or Tech Area: Robotics; Medical Devices