Mollusc shell structures: novel design strategies for synthetic materials

Mollusc shells are layered organic—inorganic composites bioengineered at the nanoscale. The structural features of these composites result in toughened shells and can provide a useful paradigm to consider in the design of biomaterials. Recent studies in vitro illustrate the function of proteins in controlling the nucleation and growth of the inorganic phases in these structures. Characterization of the morphology of the organic matrix provides new insights into the registry between layers of inorganic material. Biomimetic methods are being used to duplicate these biomineralization processes to achieve comparable structural features in ceramic composites.