Multi Scale Investigation of Surface Topography of Ball Python (Python Regius) Shed Skin in Comparison to Human skin

TL;DR

This study investigates the multi-scale surface topography of Ball Python shed skin using SEM and White Light Interferometry, comparing it to human skin to understand natural surface features that contribute to low wear and friction.

Contribution

It provides a detailed multi-scale analysis of Python skin surface features and compares them with human skin, offering insights into natural surface design for tribological applications.

Findings

Python skin has unique multi-scale topographical features.

Surface roughness varies across different body locations.

Compared to human skin, Python skin exhibits distinct surface characteristics.

Abstract

Constructing a surface that is an integral part of the function of tribosystems (deterministic surface) is an intriguing goal. Inspirations for such surfaces come from studying natural systems and deducing design rules. The major attraction is that natural systems, while functionally complex, are, in general, of optimized shape and performance. It is further believed that functional complexity of natural systems is what affords natural species to morph continuously to adapt with the operating environment. One bio-species that is of interest is the Ball Python. This is because such a species continuously slides against various surfaces, many of which are deemed tribologically hostile, without sustaining much damage. Much of the success of that species in adapting to its environment is attributed to surface design features. In that respect, studying these features and how do they contribute to the control of friction and wear is very attractive. This paper is a step in this direction. In this work we apply a multi scale surface characterization approach to study surface design features of the Python Regius. The focus is on those features that are typically used to assess the performance of high quality lubricating surfaces. To this end, topographical features are studied by SEM and through White Light Interferrometery (WLI). We probe the roughness of the surface on multi scale and as a function of location within the body. In addition we draw a comparison of these features to those of human skin.