Knowledge transfer from biology to technology
Hornets – masters in the art of lightweight construction
Sep 23, 2004 | MARTINA PETER
Two hornet colonies are currently housed in test stands on an EMPA building rooftop in Dübendorf, under the watchful eye of staff from the Wood Laboratory. Seeking inspiration for new technical solutions, the researchers are investigating both the fascinating lightweight structures built by the social hymenopterans and their thermoregulation strategies.
![https://www.empa.ch/documents/56164/314421/a592-2004-09-23+b7m+Hornissennest.jpg/7e907d33-b765-4fd3-bf6c-c800c38378f4?t=1448300957000](https://www.empa.ch/documents/56164/314421/a592-2004-09-23+b7m+Hornissennest.jpg/7e907d33-b765-4fd3-bf6c-c800c38378f4?t=1448300957000)
A hornet approaching the test stand.
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