Sound-absorbing material inspired by moth wings could lead to healthier planet

Did you know that the scales on moth wings possess exceptional sound-absorbing qualities? Well now you do, thanks to experts at the University of Bristol.

The research was spearheaded by Professor Marc Holderied, a distinguished sensory ecologist and bio-acoustician at Bristol’s School of Biological Sciences, who found that moth wings proved to be excellent sound absorbers, even when positioned on an artificial surface.

With over two decades of experience studying bats and their echolocation abilities, he drew inspiration from an anti-echolocation stealth cloak in the insect world. He is now committed to developing bio-inspired sound absorbers that will contribute to a quieter (and healthier!) world.

Read this next: AIAIAI announces a Headphones for Life initiative

“What we needed to know first, was how well these moth scales would perform if they were in front of an acoustically highly reflective surface, such as a wall,” Professor Holderied explains.

He adds “We also needed to find out how the mechanisms of absorption might change when the scales were interacting with this surface.”

Acoustic panels made of ultrathin materials may revolutionise building acoustics and reduce noise pollution in our cities.

Read this next: Five tips for keeping your mind & body healthy in the studio

In addition, this could potentially lead to reduced weight and increased efficiency in transportation; the use of lightweight, sound-absorbing panels in planes, cars and trains leads to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Scientists now aim to create prototypes based on moth wing mechanisms for superior sound absorption.

Prof. Holderied concluded, “Moths are going to inspire the next generation of sound-absorbing materials.”

Adrianna Cheung is Mixmag Asia’s Culture Curator, follow her on Instagram.