Materials that are multifunctional, structurally versatile, and resource conscious, -- the qualities typical of components of many living tissues -- represent the critical bottlenecks of many modern technologies. Although the notion of Nature-inspired materials is known for hundreds of years, the fundamental advantages of biomimetic materials and their structural design become fully appreciated only recently. One of the advantages is simultaneous optimization for two-five mutually exclusive parameters, exemplified by high Young’s modulus and low specific density. For traditional materials the combinations of such parameters are limited by property correlations known as Ashby plots.<br/>Initially, the origin of the property correlation for macroscale materials will be examined. A simple theoretical formalism based on property differentials will be applied to identify the reasons behind the property correlations. Two approaches – layered nanocomposites and nanoparticle self-assembly -- will be discussed as pathways to de-couple them with layer-by-layer assembly (LBL/LbL) as the primary tool for their realization. This work led to replication of unusual combination of mechanical properties found in nacre and teeth enamel. The previously unattainable combinations of multiple mechanical, electrical, optical, biological,<i> etc</i> parameters suitable for energy, automotive, and biomedical technologies can be realized.

Layered biomimetic nanocomposites and property correlations

255th National Meeting (2018)

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