Biomimetic manufacturing with intelligent Biopolymeric structures for capturing environmental water

Abstract

In this work, the study related to biomimicry is presented, specifically discussing the feeding method of cacti in the Chihuahuan desert named Astrophytum crassispinum and Corynopuntia bulbispina, both with xerophytic characteristics. This means they can feed using the humidity of the air in a complementary way. The aim is to create a prototype that can emulate this phenomenon of feeding using humidity. On the other hand, Young's equation highlights how the inclination in a certain geometry can be fundamental for the study of surface area. Additionally, the Marangoni flow is essential in this context since it allows us to understand the change in the different phases of fluid on solid surfaces. Finally, simulations are carried out using Matlab, applying these principles to determine the appropriate geometry to later be 3D printed. Furthermore, a comparison of these principles is made with Wenzel's theory, allowing for a discussion on how roughness plays an important role in the formation of droplets and creating a hydrophilic surface at nanometer scales with the "Fuzzy Skin" feature of Cura Slicer