Photo: Animals Inspire Next Generation of Body Armor

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An image taken with a microscope reveals the bumpy surface of a snail shell's inner lining. Scientists believe that layers of the lining are held together with an organic glue, or biopolymer, that sticks to these bumps, giving the shell its strength. Researchers hope to use such insights to develop lighter, stronger body armor for soldiers and police officers.

Photograph courtesy Christine Ortiz/MIT

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