Ep 3 How Nature Protects from Fire

How Banksia shrubs inspired researchers to develop a solution where pine wood resists ignition even at 1008C. Function: Protect from fire Biological model: Oldman Banksia (Banksia serrata) follicles Engineering translation: Heat-activated self-sealing material concepts tested at the Max Planck InstituteSources / further reading • Australian Plants Society. Banksia serrata. https://share.google/qAj9SpOmx1eZ5Z11o• Huss JC, et al. Temperature-induced self-sealing capability of Banksia follicles. 2018. https://share.google/111FL5JbKTnukWWM3• Huss JC, et al. Protecting offspring against fire: Lessons from Banksia seed pods. 2019. https://share.google/w72njJAFMxvELUjEiImage credits • Banksia pod via Canva • Max Planck Institute, Jörg Abendrot via Wikimedia Written and produced by Melanie Farmer. Podcast: Wild engineers. For learning and inspiration. Music and production completed in Movavi 2026. Please validate any design application for technical use.