Biomimicry in construction: Innovations in energy absorption through bio-inspired structural designs

Advances in bio-inspired design and material science are revolutionizing energy absorption mechanisms within the construction sector. Drawing inspiration from natural structures such as beetle elytra, bamboo, nacre, and fish scales, this study explores the transformative potential of biomimetic solutions for creating lightweight, high-strength, and energy-efficient materials. A bibliometric analysis of 1247 research articles from 2019 to 2024 reveals a sharp increase in scholarly attention to bio-based materials, underscoring their growing relevance in sustainable building practices. This review examines the morphological and mechanical features of diverse, bio-inspired designs, assessing their applications in high-impact areas such as energy absorption systems, building envelopes, and structural reinforcements. This review highlights the transformative potential of bio-inspired design strategies in the development of advanced materials that are lightweight, multifunctional, and impact-resistant. By systematically analyzing biological systems ranging from plant-based structures such as bamboo culms and palm trunks to animal-derived architectures, including beetle elytra, fish scales, and nacre, significant advancements can be achieved in energy dissipation, structural optimization, and environmental sustainability. The integration of hierarchical organization, spatially graded porosity, and functionally adaptive features inherent to these natural systems provides a rigorous framework for designing next-generation composite materials. A key challenge is the absence of standardized testing methods and mechanical benchmarks for quantitatively comparing natural and synthetic materials across scales and functions. Replicating nature's complex hierarchical and gradient structures in scalable, manufacturable forms, especially via advanced techniques like 3D printing, remains technically demanding. Moreover, achieving the multifunctionality inherent in biological systems without compromising performance remains a significant challenge in material design.