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- Investigating the Architecture and Characteristics of Asian Hornet Nests: A Biomimetics Examination of Structure and MaterialsPublication . Sedira, Naim; Pinto, Jorge; Ginja, Mário; Gomes, Ana; Nepomuceno, Miguel C. S.; Pereira, SandraThis study investigates the internal architecture of Asian hornet nests (AHNs) using advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scanning and X-ray radiography, to understand their construction and function. The primary objective and significance of this study centre on drawing inspiration from the creative way Asian hornets construct their nests, with a particular focus on the architecture, design, functionality, and building materials of these nests. The architectural principles governing the construction of these nests, such as the arrangement of hexagonal cells, pedicels for load bearing, and adhesive materials, serve as a source of inspiration for innovative and sustainable design practices. The pedicels in Asian hornet nests play a crucial role in transferring load and ensuring stability. Additionally, AHNs’ adhesion to tree branches is essential for preventing collapse, and the pedicels provide necessary structural support. The knowledge gained from studying AHNs’ internal architecture could be applied directly to the architecture and civil engineering fields to improve structure stability and durability. The microstructure analysis of the paper-like material that hornets produce to build their nests indicates a complex and heterogeneous structure, composed of various plant fragments and fibres. This unique composition creates intricate grooves and pores, which are essential for regulating temperature and humidity levels within the outer envelope of the nest. The study of Asian hornet nests’ internal structure demonstrated that nature’s engineering principles inspire the design of durable and resilient structures in the construction industry. Civil engineers can incorporate similar principles into their designs to enhance the structural integrity and performance of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure.
- Microstructural properties of Asian hornet nest paper-like materials: Preliminary step towards biomimicry materials for civil engineering applicationsPublication . Sedira, Naim; Pinto, Jorge; Gomes, Ana; Nepomuceno, Miguel; Pereira, SandraThis paper presents a comprehensive examination of the microstructure and mineralogy of the paper-like material found in Asian hornet nests (referred to as AHN P-LM) and the nearby tree leaves, utilising scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The analysis conducted through SEM-EDS demonstrates that AHN P-LM is primarily composed of plant fragments, with slight traces of inorganic substances (such as CaOx). The thread-like morphologies observed in the SEM analysis, which are linked to the secretion of hornets, warrant attention due to their significance in understanding the microstructure of AHN P-LM. The presence of nitrogen (N) in the EDS analysis of AHN P-LM, in contrast to its absence in analysed leaves, strongly implies that the nitrogen originates from hornet saliva. Additionally, SEM-EDS analysis revealed the impact of chemical composition variations on colour differences within AHN P-LM. Furthermore, X-ray diffraction analysis on ash samples from AHN P-LM confirmed the presence of minerals such as quartz, lime, phlogopite, and microcline. These findings about mineral composition align closely with results obtained from SEM-EDS analyses, presenting various aspects related to understanding the structure and compositional makeup of AHN P-LM. Biomimicry principles can be applied to draw inspiration from the AHN P-LM for replication in the civil engineering field, facilitating innovative solutions. Understanding hornet behaviour and nest material composition is essential. Future outlook includes utilising these materials in wood construction, 3D printing for structural components, shelters, infrastructure repair, green building, and architectural innovation.