Teeth exhibit graded mechanical properties and cathedral-like geometry, and over time they develop a network of micro-cracks which help diffuse stress. The automotive and aviation industries use sophisticated materials to prevent break-up on impact such as composite materials — layers of glass or carbon fibers — held together by a brittle matrix. In teeth, fibers are not arranged in a grid, but are "wavy" in structure, which is more resilient to cracking. If engineers can incorporate tooth enamel's wavy hierarchy, micro-cracking mechanism, and capacity to heal, lighter and stronger aircraft and space vehicles can be developed.
Reference: Science Daily
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