A revolutionary new material mimicking shark skin is poised to transform the aviation industry, promising significant fuel savings and reduced carbon emissions through enhanced aerodynamics.
Aerodynamic material that mimics shark skin helps planes fly with less drag, potentially saving on fuel and reducing carbon emissions.
The development of a material with microscopic grooves mimicking those of shark skin is being applied to commercial airliners and supersonic jets by Australian aerospace company MicroTau. The material is applied as patches, which have already been ordered by several customers.
Shark skin is covered in tiny, tooth-like scales called denticles.
These denticles provide a unique texture that helps sharks move through the water with reduced drag and increased maneuverability.
The shape and arrangement of these scales also create turbulence around the shark's body, making it harder for predators to get close.
In addition, the skin itself is often covered in tiny ridges and grooves, further reducing friction and allowing sharks to swim efficiently.
How ‘When the grooves in the material align with the airflow around an aircraft, they create a smoother surface that reduces drag.’
Aerodynamics is the study of the interaction between air and solid objects in motion.
It involves understanding how air flows around, over, and under surfaces, including aircraft wings, 'car bodies' , and 'wind turbines' .
Aerodynamic forces include lift, drag, and thrust, which are crucial for flight and vehicle movement.
According to NASA, a 1% improvement in aerodynamics can result in a 2-3% reduction in fuel consumption.
Research has led to significant advancements in aerodynamics, enabling more efficient and sustainable transportation systems.
When “_the grooves in the material align with the airflow around an aircraft, they create a smoother surface that reduces drag.” _, they create a smoother surface that reduces drag. This can lead to significant fuel savings and reduced carbon emissions, especially during long-haul flights.
Testing and Applications
Commercial and military customers have already signed up to test the shark skin material on their aircraft. The material is designed to be easy to apply and remove, making it a versatile solution for reducing drag and saving fuel.
A New Era for Supersonic Flight?
The development of this new material could mark an important step towards a more sustainable aviation industry. With supersonic flight set to return in 2025, the potential benefits of shark skin material could be significant.
Sustainability refers to the ability of systems and processes to maintain their functionality over time without depleting natural resources.
It encompasses environmental, social, and economic aspects.
Sustainable practices reduce waste, conserve energy, and promote eco-friendly technologies.
According to the 'United Nations' , 80% of global emissions come from human activities.
Implementing sustainable measures can decrease greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50%.
Companies like Patagonia and IKEA have successfully integrated sustainability into their business models.
- newscientist.com | Jets wrapped in shark skin material could fly further on less fuel
