Functionally graded materials in biology

Biological materials are frequently characterised by profound variation in mechanical properties. Biology uses both regional variation in geometric and materials mechanics to precisely tailor the mechanical performance of structures for best advantage. In this talk, I will demonstrate how such variations manifest themselves in materials such as bone and feather keratin, resulting in smarter structures. Borrowing ideas from nature may lead us to produce materials and structures, such as composites and ceramics, that confer advantages in functionality and economy not currently found in engineered materials.