Meeting Abstract
Branched biological fiber-composite lightweight designs have evolved in diverse plant groups revealing various shapes and inner tissue structuring. The existing type of branches and branching architectures are the result of structural and biomechanical optimizations in the course of evolution. Branches are designed to withstand static (e.g. net weight) and dynamic (e.g. wind) loads while having a benign fracture behavior. Thus, branched plants are suitable concept generators for the biomimetic optimization of branched technical fiber-reinforced structures. However, a deepened understanding of the form-structure-function principles of plant branches require for novel methodological approaches that allow non-invasive and non-destructive repetitive 3D to 4D in vivo imaging of plant tissues. In this study, we used traditional and modern 3D to 4D imaging methods to reveal the functional morphology, biomechanics and development of the branch-stem-junction in plants. A novel methodological approach based on magnetic resonance imaging allowed for in vivo analysis of a load-adapted tissue placement and its development in dragon tree branches. In addition, we shortly demonstrate the potential of functional plant MRI for analyzing further, up to now, unsolved scientific questions concerning e.g. plant self-repair or movement.
