Groundbreaking research aims to create 'smart' materials inspired by bee nests

Filipino researchers from UP Diliman College of Science's Institute of Chemistry (UPD-CS IC), along with their colleagues from the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), have come up with a brilliant idea to investigate ways in creating "smart" materials inspired by bee nests.

These porous materials, inspired by the structural strengths of beehives, serve a dual purpose beyond mere imitation. These are designed not only to replicate the robustness of beehive structures but also to function as effective filters, selectively trapping microparticles.

As a result, this concept holds immense potential for a wide range of applications, extending from water purification systems to medical sensors.

Jonathan Patricio, Gillian Kathryn Yap, Jose Jesus Gayosa, and Dr. Susan Arco of the UPD-CS IC, in collaboration with researchers from ADMU, successfully controlled the physical properties of porous polyvinyl chloride (PVC) films by adjusting the drying temperature employed during the manufacturing process.

The PVC material takes shape around water droplets, and during evaporation, it leaves a pattern of microscopic holes reminiscent of a bee's nest.

Patterns like these have long been recognized for their valuable engineering applications, offering a wide array of creative possibilities.

“One of the most interesting structures inspired by nature is the honeycomb pattern… Its unique properties and structure inspired the construction of light and robust aircraft and spacecraft, protection gear, panels, packaging, and cushioning because of an ability to absorb impact and energy,” the researchers explained in their paper.

“The repeating units of a honeycomb pattern can also effectively trap particles and impurities thus making them a promising structure for air and water filters,” they added.

Furthermore, the scientists also explored the wettability of the various honeycomb PVC materials they developed.

Additionally, they investigated the potential for selectively trapping microparticles by subjecting them to an electric charge in the honeycomb structure.

For the researchers, the study “opens the possibility of integrating polymeric honeycomb structures into substrates used for microparticle trapping, sensing, and other related applications.”