Page 46 - Biomimetics: Technology Imitates Nature

Biomimetics: Technology Imitates Nature

What mankind has to learn from plants isn't limited to solar cells. Plants are opening up
many new horizons, from construction to the perfume industry. Chemical engineers pro-
ducing deodorants and soaps are now trying to produce beautiful fragrances in the lab-
oratory by imitating the scents of flowers. The scents produced by many famous hous-
es, such as Christian Dior, Jacques Fath, Pierre Balmain, contain floral essences found in
nature. (“The History of Parfume;” http://www.parfumsraffy.com/history.html)

Protected Surfaces

Any surface can be damaged by dirt, or even by bright light. That is
why scientists have developed furniture and car polishes, and liquids to

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