Gecko Toe Pads and Shark Fins Inspire Energy Saving Wind Turbines

The development and testing of a new surface coating that could help control the flow around wind turbine blades is being examined to not only increase efficiency, but also in hopes to reduce the maintenance cost in the turbines.

A company through the Texas Tech University Innovation Hub at Research Park is working on the development of a new product, which originated from using gecko toe pads as their models, that could increase wind turbine efficiency. The development and testing of the new surface coating, which could help control the flow around wind turbine blades, is being examined to not only increase efficiency, but also in hopes to reduce the maintenance cost in the turbines. The coating contains tiny pillars that are similar to the structures that cover gecko toe pads and shark fins.

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Joan Mantini is Associate Editor of Ceramic Industry, Adhesives & Sealants Industry, and Casino Journal. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications, as well as a master’s degree in business administration.