Bioinspirational understanding of flexural performance in hedgehog spines.

In this research, the flexural performance of hedgehog spines is investigated in four ways. First, X-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT) is employed to analyze the complex internal architecture of hedgehog spines. μCT images reveal distinct structural morphology, characterized by longitudinal stringers and transverse central plates, which enhance flexural performance.

Static flexural properties of hedgehog spines conditioned in coupled temperature and relative humidity environments.

Hedgehogs are agile climbers, scaling trees and plants to heights exceeding 10m while foraging insects. Hedgehog spines (a.k.

Dynamic impact testing of hedgehog spines using a dual-arm crash pendulum.

Hedgehog spines are a potential model for impact resistant structures and material. While previous studies have examined static mechanical properties of individual spines, actual collision tests on spines analogous to those observed in the wild have not previously been investigated. In this study, samples of roughly 130 keratin spines were mounted vertically in thin substrates to mimic the natural spine layout on hedgehogs.