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Why we start from honeycombs rather than cocoons.

Submitted by Jin MZ on

The study of cellular solids is greatly influenced by the honeycomb. However, the honeycomb is not a component as whole for bees. Instead, the bee only care the shape and mechanical property of the cells, but in the engineering field, a cell of honeycomb is seldom used. We use them as plate, shell and so on. I think we ignore another porous material called cocoons, the protection to the most fragile period of insects. It is always bearing the load as a whole component.   The emphasis on honeycomb, in my opinion, is due to its regular structure which is favorable for mathematics. However, from revolutionary viewpoint, a new biomimetic designed material with very similar microstructure of cocoons, which I am current studying deserves more attention. I indeed found it has stronger mechanical strength than honeycomb in some regards.   I will be glad to discuss with any one about my opinion.