Fluid Ejections in Nature

Overview

Journal Annu Rev Chem Biomol Eng

Publisher Annual Reviews

Specialties Biochemistry
Molecular Biology

Date 2024 Apr 26

PMID 38669514

Authors

Elio J Challita

Pankaj Rohilla

M Saad Bhamla

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

From microscopic fungi to colossal whales, fluid ejections are universal and intricate phenomena in biology, serving vital functions such as animal excretion, venom spraying, prey hunting, spore dispersal, and plant guttation. This review delves into the complex fluid physics of ejections across various scales, exploring both muscle-powered active systems and passive mechanisms driven by gravity or osmosis. It introduces a framework using dimensionless numbers to delineate transitions from dripping to jetting and elucidate the governing forces. Highlighting the understudied area of complex fluid ejections, this review not only rationalizes the biophysics involved but also uncovers potential engineering applications in soft robotics, additive manufacturing, and drug delivery. By bridging biomechanics, the physics of living systems, and fluid dynamics, this review offers valuable insights into the diverse world of fluid ejections and paves the way for future bioinspired research across the spectrum of life.

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