Abstract

The remarkable mechanical adaptability of arapaima (Arapaima gigas) scales has made them an important subject of study. However, no research has been conducted into their tribological properties, which are crucial for the protectability and flexibility of arapaimas. In this study, by combining morphological characterizations, friction experiments, and theoretical analyses, the relationship between the surface morphology and tribological properties of arapaima scales is determined. These results indicate that arapaima scales exhibit varying surface morphologies in different regions. More specifically, the exposed regions of scales feature grooves and a circulus, whereas the covered regions exhibit bumps. The specific surface morphology of arapaima scales produces varying tribological properties across different regions and sliding directions. The unique tribological properties of arapaima scales influence the forces received from predator attacks and neighboring scales, directly influencing the arapaima’s protective capabilities. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms of natural flexible dermal armors, and it has potential applications in personal protective systems.

Details

Title
Effects of surface morphology on tribological properties of Arapaima gigas scales
Author
Zhang, Shuaijun 1 ; Bai, Pengpeng 2 ; Wen, Xiangli 2 ; Wen, Chengwei 2 ; Cao, Hui 2 ; Yang, Wanyou 2 ; Tian, Yu 2 

 Tsinghua University, State Key Laboratory of Tribology in Advanced Equipment, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Beijing, China (GRID:grid.12527.33) (ISNI:0000 0001 0662 3178); Jilin University, Key Laboratory of Bionic Engineering (Ministry of Education, China), Changchun, China (GRID:grid.64924.3d) (ISNI:0000 0004 1760 5735) 
 Tsinghua University, State Key Laboratory of Tribology in Advanced Equipment, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Beijing, China (GRID:grid.12527.33) (ISNI:0000 0001 0662 3178) 
Pages
1469-1482
Publication year
2024
Publication date
Jul 2024
Publisher
Springer Nature B.V.
ISSN
22237690
e-ISSN
22237704
Source type
Scholarly Journal
Language of publication
English
ProQuest document ID
3063931968
Copyright
© The author(s) 2023. This work is published under http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ (the “License”). Notwithstanding the ProQuest Terms and Conditions, you may use this content in accordance with the terms of the License.