Fluid-structure interactions enable passive flow control in real and biomimetic plants

Abstract

Microscale intercellular pores of tree conduit contain flexible elements that locally restrict flow in response to mechanical stress. This facilitates autonomous flow control in which the cells collectively steer water across the tissue in strikingly complex patterns. With this insight, we are able to design physically programmable inline flow devices that operate without a central control unit. We expect the new approach will strongly impact flow-engineering, due to its conceptual simplicity and low cost.