Super-buoyant material inspired by water striders

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Aerogels are among the lightest solid materials in existence, and are created by replacing the liquid component of a gel with a gas – this results in their extremely low density, and has earned them the nickname of “frozen smoke.” Now, scientists have created a new type of aerogel that is inspired by the feet of the water strider. The material is reportedly so buoyant, that a boat made from one pound (454 grams) of it could carry about 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of cargo. .. Continue Reading Super-buoyant material inspired by water striders

Section: Good Thinking

Tags: Biomimicry, Floating, Helsinki University of Technology, Insect, Water

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