Optimized Hierarchical Structure and Chemical Gradients Promote the Biomechanical Functions of the Spike of Mantis Shrimps

The tail spike of the mantis shrimp is the appendage for counteracting the enemy from behind. Here, we investigate the correlations between the chemical compositions, the microstructures, and the mechanical properties of the spike. We find that the spike is a hollow beam with a varying cross section along the length. The cross section comprises four different layers with distinct features of microstructures and chemical compositions. The local mechanical properties of these layers correlate well with the microstructures and chemical compositions, a combination of which effectively restricts the crack propagation while maximizing the release of strain energy during deformation. Finite element analysis and mechanics modeling demonstrate that the optimized structure of the spike confines the mechanical damage in the region near the tip and prevents catastrophic breakage at the base. Furthermore, we use a 3D printing technique to fabricate multiple hollow cylindrical samples consisting of biomimetic microstructures of the spike and confirm that the combination of the Bouligand structure with radially oriented parallel sheets greatly improves the toughness and strength during compression tests. The multiscale design strategy of the spike revealed here is expected to be of great interest for the development of novel bioinspired materials.