ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights the potential new materials that can be achieved by combining the individual components. Drawing on the structures and textures seen in natural materials, some modern analogues are given to demonstrate the potential of recombining nature-based materials using bio-inspired design to achieve new or desirable effects. The chapter introduces some key concepts and highlight the multitude of options for microstructure or form of the bio-based material to deliver superior properties for its intended purpose. It provides inspiration for self-healing in materials, and provides important additional insight into the ageing related changes in bone strength and toughness. The chapter outlines many ways in which the materials scientist can turn to natural materials for inspiration in form, composition, mechanical properties, motion and regulation of environmental conditions. An increasing number of examples combine natural materials with bioinspiration in the use in architecture or the built environment.
