Book description
Can we emulate nature's technology in chemistry?
Through billions of years of evolution, Nature has generated some
remarkable systems and substances that have made life on earth what it
is today. Increasingly, scientists are seeking to mimic Nature's
systems and processes in the lab in order to harness the power of
Nature for the benefit of society.
Bioinspiration and Biomimicry in Chemistry explores the
chemistry of Nature and how we can replicate what Nature does in
abiological settings. Specifically, the book focuses on wholly
artificial, man-made systems that employ or are inspired by principles
of Nature, but which do not use materials of biological origin.
Beginning with a general overview of the concept of bioinspiration
and biomimicry in chemistry, the book tackles such topics as:
- Bioinspired molecular machines
- Bioinspired catalysis
- Biomimetic amphiphiles and vesicles
- Biomimetic principles in macromolecular science
- Biomimetic cavities and bioinspired receptors
- Biomimicry in organic synthesis
Written by a team of leading international experts, the contributed
chapters collectively lay the groundwork for a new generation of
environmentally friendly and sustainable materials, pharmaceuticals,
and technologies. Readers will discover the latest advances in our
ability to replicate natural systems and materials as well as the many
impediments that remain, proving how much we still need to learn about
how Nature works.
Bioinspiration and Biomimicry in Chemistry is recommended for
students and researchers in all realms of chemistry. Addressing how
scientists are working to reverse engineer Nature in all areas of
chemical research, the book is designed to stimulate new discussion
and research in this exciting and promising field.
GERHARD F. SWIEGERS, PhD, is a professor of chemistry at the
University of Wollongong in Australia. His research focuses on taking
inspiration from and learning from Nature in fields including
self-assembly and catalysis. He has authored widely cited works that
highlight the similarity of self-assembly in chemistry and biology. He
has also been responsible for illuminating important fundamental
aspects of chemical and biological catalysis, with significant
implications for the rational design of bio-inspired catalysts.
