arXiv subjects

Flavia Libonati

Publications and source records attributed to Flavia Libonati.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Architected Structural Material Design Inspired by Diatoms: Merging Nature's Beauty With Engineering Through Biomimetics

Imagine a world where beauty and technology move in perfect harmony, revealing tiny masterpieces hidden in the water. This world is Nature, and diatoms are the stars. Masters of assembling complex hierarchical glass structures, these microscopic algae are true technological gems, and their potential is boundless when it comes to transforming our world. From pharmaceutical applications to biomaterial synthesis, water purification to advanced optical systems, solar cells to the production of new fuels, architecture to design objects, diatoms teach us that Nature's potential is limitless, proving to be invaluable allies for innovation and sustainable development. But how can organisms so small hold such immense potential? In this chapter, we will explore the key characteristics of diatoms and unveil the hidden secrets behind their beauty and multifunctionality, offering an interdisciplinary vision that celebrates the interaction between art and science. We provide concrete examples of structural materials that demonstrate how diatoms can serve as the meeting point between artistic creativity and technological innovation, inspiring new design paradigms and reshaping how we approach materials science and engineering.

physics.pop-ph↗

arXiv2025

Revealing diatom-inspired materials multifunctionality

Diatoms have been described as nanometer-born lithographers because of their ability to create sophisticated three-dimensional amorphous silica exoskeletons. The hierarchical architecture of these structures provides diatoms with mechanical protection and the ability to filter, float, and manipulate light. Therefore, they emerge as an extraordinary model of multifunctional materials from which to draw inspiration. In this paper, we use numerical simulations, analytical models, and experimental tests to unveil the structural and fluid dynamic efficiency of the Coscinodiscus species diatom. Then we propose a novel 3D printable multifunctional biomimetic material for applications such as porous filters, heat exchangers, drug delivery systems, lightweight structures, and robotics. Our results demonstrate the role of Nature as a material designer for efficient and tunable systems and highlight the potential of diatoms for engineering materials innovation. Additionally, the results reported in this paper lay the foundation to extend the structure-property characterization of diatoms.

cond-mat.mtrl-sci↗

arXiv2025

D-HAT: a Diatom-inspired structure for a Helmet concept Against Trauma

The primary objective of helmet design continues to be the prevention of traumatic brain injuries. Yet, achieving an optimal user experience, including aspects such as fit, thermal comfort, breathability, waterproofing, and reusability, is increasingly significant. Thus, designing helmets with multifunctional performance represents the latest technological frontier for safety devices. This study draws inspiration from the morphology of Coscinodiscus species diatoms to develop a biomimetic material replicating their cellular structure and multifunctionality. Unlike its biological counterpart, the synthetic material is engineered as the inner liner for multi impact helmets, suited for urban sports and micro mobility applications. The architecture of the material is modeled using computer aided design tools, and its energy absorption capabilities are analyzed through finite element modeling and quasi static compression tests on 3D printed elastomeric samples. Performance optimization is achieved through a parametric approach. The results demonstrate that the material exhibits energy absorption comparable to cellular materials like honeycombs, while offering lightweight properties, breathability, and resistance to atmospheric agents. This biomimetic design marks a significant advancement in high performance safety equipment.

physics.med-ph↗