Moth eye-inspired tech could lead to better, safer X-rays
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Scanning electron microscope image of the eye on a leaf miner moth (Image: Dartmouth College)
(a) A schematic explaining the structure of the bio-inspired moth eye nanostructures; (b) scanning electron microscope image of the same (Image: Optic Letters)
Scanning electron microscope image of the eye on a leaf miner moth (Image: Dartmouth College)
New technology based on the eye of a moth improves the quality of X-ray images without compromising the patient's safety (Photo: Shutterstock)
Article Summary
To increase stealth and evade predators, the moth has evolved a remarkable eye that, rather than reflecting light, absorbs it almost completely. Engineers have mimicked its nanostructure in the past to design better solar panel coatings and antireflective surfaces, and are now using the same principle to design a thin film that will absorb radiation from X-ray machines more effectively, exposing patients to a significantly lower risk while obtaining higher quality imaging.
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