Research on bulletproof vests from box fish

Scientists at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) are looking for new materials in nature that could help create more effective bulletproof vests. The research focuses on the unique shape and strength of the boxfish.

The boxfish's shell has a unique hexagonal scale structure. Photo: UCSD/Michael M. Porter/Clemson University.

The boxfish is an ancient creature that has survived for 35 million years in an environment dominated by more aggressive fish. The team used electron microscopy to study its exoskeleton and micro-computed tomography to determine the physical features of the boxfish.

While most fish have overlapping scales, the boxfish’s shell is made up of numerous hexagonal scales that are connected by seams, similar to the structure of a human baby’s skull before its bones harden. This structure gives the boxfish a tough shell, but still allows for some flexibility.

However, the main reason the boxfish can withstand such intense pressure is the star-shaped structure in the center of each scale, allowing the pressure to be distributed evenly across the surface of its body. The research team also discovered that the boxfish's defenses lie in the intricately connected collagen fibers beneath its shell that are very difficult to puncture.

The scientists tested the strength of the double layer of defense by separating it lengthwise and crosswise. They found that the scales played a large role in the overall structure’s strength. Under pressure, they would overlap each other in a zigzag pattern. The team believes that the protective properties of the boxfish could lead to more effective bulletproof vests.

"This destructive force structure has evolved over millions of years in nature and we are studying it with the support of the US Air Force. Hopefully it will help us design bulletproof vests that are more protective against external forces than traditional vests," Gizmag quoted Marc Meyers, a member of the research team, on July 29.

According to VnExpress