Learning from nature is not generally associated with the construction industry, but biomimetics (design inspired by nature) has huge potential for inspiring innovations - as testified by the reflective catseye® road studs familiar to road users all over the world . However, much of UK industry (including construction) is unaware of the potential for biomimetics. This Information Paper illustrates how biomimetics has been used in construction and explores its potential to provide the industry with innovative materials, processes and structures of all kinds.

Features / Benefits
Gives the background of the development of biomimetics in construction
Explains how biomimetics can be integrated into construction through development and commercialisation of construction products
Examples ranging from water lilies and honeycombs to tree structures and self-cleaning paint

Readership
Architects, design engineers, contractors, manufacturers, materials specialists

Contents
The development of biomimetics
 Biomimetics in construction
 Biomimetics as a route to developing new construction products
 Entrepreneurial
 Research-led (bottom-up)
 Industry-led (top-down)
 Integrating biomimetics into construction products
 The TRI Z principle for a systematic approach to biomimetics
 References
 Websites/networks