Abstract
Thuja plicata is a coniferous tree which displays remarkable water channelling properties. In this article, an easily fabricated mesh inspired by the hierarchical macro surface structure of Thuja plicata branchlets is described which emulates this efficient water collection behaviour. The key parameters are shown to be the pore size, pore angle, mesh rotation, tilt angle (branch droop) and layering (branch overlap). Envisaged societal applications include water harvesting and low cost breathable architecture for developing countries.
Highlights
Is sufficient to yield + 9 9.7% water collection efficiencies
A lowering of liquid surface tension was found to correlate to an increase in the value of φ at which the mesh fails
The aforementioned water collection efficiencies rely on the water stream hitting the mesh surface, which limits the scope of potential applications for just a single mesh layer
Summary
135°, water flows down the vertical struts of the mesh under gravity. as β approaches 70°, the water is forced to flow over the diamond orientation of the mesh leading to water dripping through the mesh. More realistic rainfall across the whole single mesh layer (including pores) was emulated by utilising a water sprinkler, and in this case collection efficiency decreases with larger pore size due to water droplets falling directly through the holes, Fig. 3(b). Other potential applications of these bioinspired meshes include: fog harvesting nets, saline-free water collection on sailing boats, filtration, and breathable architecture (agriculture, transport, photovoltaics, residential buildings and high rise offices). For the latter, by offsetting two (or more) layers of mesh with respect to each other, the structure effectively becomes waterproof, breathable and light transparent. The sheer simplicity of design and fabrication of such bioinspired roofing makes it readily affordable for widespread adoption in developing countries
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