Guard hairs form waterproof barrier: seals

The guard hairs of seals form a waterproof barrier due, in part, to their flattened shape.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Excess liquids

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Waterproofing materials for roofs and walls, especially in areas with heavy rainfall; water-repellent cases for computers and electronics; water-repellent packaging; water-repellent coatings for concrete, wood, and other surfaces.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Guard hairs may be flattened in shape; this adaptation is most marked among aquatic mammals such as seals, so it is evidently a waterproofing device." (Foy and Oxford Scientific Films 1982:83)

About the inspiring organism

Phocidae
Phocidae

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Waterproofing materials for roofs and walls, especially in areas with heavy rainfall; water-repellent cases for computers and electronics; water-repellent packaging; water-repellent coatings for concrete, wood, and other surfaces.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Building, electronics, packaging, coatings

References

Foy, Sally; Oxford Scientific Films. 1982. The Grand Design: Form and Colour in Animals. Lingfield, Surrey, U.K.: BLA Publishing Limited for J.M.Dent & Sons Ltd, Aldine House, London. 238 p.

Guard hairs form waterproof barrier: seals

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