Biomimetic design prospects from an understanding of Aboriginal uses of spinifex grasses

Memmott, Paul, Flutter, Nickolas and Penny, Marie (2009). Biomimetic design prospects from an understanding of Aboriginal uses of spinifex grasses. In: Julia Gatley, Cultural Crossroads: Proceedings of the 26th International SAHANZ Conference. Cultural Crossroads: 26th International Conference of the Society of Architectural Historians, Australia and New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand, (1-20). 2-5 July 2009.

Author Memmott, Paul
Flutter, Nickolas
Penny, Marie
Title of paper Biomimetic design prospects from an understanding of Aboriginal uses of spinifex grasses
Conference Paper Type Fully Published Paper
Conference name Cultural Crossroads: 26th International Conference of the Society of Architectural Historians, Australia and New Zealand
Conference location Auckland, New Zealand
Conference dates 2-5 July 2009
Convener Julia Gatley
Proceedings title Cultural Crossroads: Proceedings of the 26th International SAHANZ Conference
Editor Julia Gatley
Place published Auckland, New Zealand
Publisher SAHANZ
Publication date 2009
Volume number 1
Issue number 1
ISBN 9780473150655
Start page 1
End page 20
Total pages 20
Collection year 2010
Language eng
Abstract/Summary Spinifex, comprising over 60 native grass species abundant in semi-arid regions of Australia, has been used by Indigenous Australian societies as a waterproof cladding material and for the adhesive qualities of its resin. The authors are part of a multidisciplinary research project funded under the ARC Discovery Projects scheme which is evaluating traditional Aboriginal knowledge and uses of spinifex in the upper Georgina River basin region; studying its ecology and material properties; and assessing its potential application to the building industry, both in its natural state and replicated as a synthesized biomimetic material The project is inspired by biomimetic theory, drawing from nature to find new technical solutions. This paper provides a preliminary report on the project findings with particular emphasis on the application of the historical and ethno-architectural knowledge to the broader problem framework.
Subjects E1
870399 Construction Materials Performance and Processes not elsewhere classified
050207 Environmental Rehabilitation (excl. Bioremediation)
Q-Index Code E1
Q-Index Status Confirmed Code

 
Versions
Version Filter Type
Citation counts: Google Scholar Search Google Scholar
Access Statistics: 196 Abstract Views  -  Detailed Statistics
Created: Wed, 14 Apr 2010, 09:27:56 EST by Deirdre Timo on behalf of School of Architecture