Biomimetic composites inspired by mantis shrimp for aerospace applications

The biomimetic design principles of natural structures involve the strategic integration of stiff and compliant phases to synergistically enhance strength and toughness. Its evolutionary refined natural armor, characterized by a specialized microarchitecture, enables superior damage tolerance. Here, the biomimetic scaffold was designed inspired by the praying mantis shrimp front foot in the deep sea. Diffusion bonding was employed to embed 6061 Al into additively manufactured Ti6Al4V scaffolds, yielding titanium-aluminum composites. The biomimetic microstructures activated external toughening mechanisms, such as crack deflection and twisting, effectively redistributing stress, mitigating damage propagation, and suppressing crack growth. Consequently, the crack tip was shielded from applied stresses, resulting in enhanced fracture toughness and high damage tolerance. Biomimetic composites are expected to be applied to large aircraft structural components in the aerospace industry. https://doi.org/10.1002/rar2.70150