From Australian Eucalyptus plant to artificial skin

Australian Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus macrocarpa) has evolved waxy, multi-scale leaf surfaces that repel water and create rolling “water marbles” that sweep away both oily and water-based contaminants. By studying its micro- and nano-structured surface features, this project explores how nature achieves self-cleaning performance through structure rather than harsh chemical treatments.

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Biological strategies such as these can inspire a range of material and product innovations that maintain cleanliness through function rather than chemical intervention. Through the Biology-to-Design process, multiple concept directions were explored, with one developed further as an early artificial skin concept inspired by the plant’s self-cleaning logic.