Umbrella leaves-Biomechanics of transition zone from lamina to petiole of peltate leaves
Research output: Contribution to journal › Research article › Contributed › peer-review
Contributors
Abstract
In this study we aim to show how the peltate leaves of Colocasia fallax Schott and Tropaeolum majus L., despite their compact design, achieve a rigid connection between petiole and lamina. We have combined various microscopy techniques and computed tomography (CT) scanning for the analysis of the basic structure of the plant's stabilization system. Mechanical tests yielded key mechanical parameters and allowed us to assess the mode of failure. The results of the tests were further processed in a finite element method (FEM) analysis. We were able to show that both plants are able to endure high loads irrespective of the different composition of the supporting structure. C. fallax forms many separate branched strands, whereas T. majus forms fewer strands of greater diameter interconnected in the centre of the transition area, forming a bundle of irregular orientation. This results in different ways to dissipate loads on the lamina. In C. fallax we observed the outer strands of the strengthening tissue under high stress while the inner bundle carries little load. In T. majus the load is distributed more evenly through the juncture in the middle of the transition area. Potential applications include the construction of biomimetical flying roofs.
Details
Original language | English |
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Article number | 046011 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Bioinspiration & biomimetics : learning from nature |
Volume | 14 |
Issue number | 4 |
Publication status | Published - Jul 2019 |
Peer-reviewed | Yes |
Externally published | Yes |
External IDs
Scopus | 85068487936 |
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Keywords
Keywords
- peltate leaves, lamina petiole transition, mechanical testing, biomimetical flying roofs, colocasia fallax, tropaeolum majus, MECHANICAL-PROPERTIES, TURGOR PRESSURE, PLANT, RECONFIGURATION, MORPHOLOGY, BEHAVIOR, SUPPORT, IMPACT, DRAG