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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 February 2011
Diverse microstructures observed in rigid natural composites have been linked to mechanical properties that are equal to and, at times, superior to those which have been designed into synthetic composite materials comprised of organic, metallic, and ceramic constituents. The constitution, properties, and microstructures of the natural and synthetic materials are described, along with what is known and what is unknown about the constituent components, and interfaces. Hierarchical approaches to designing with and the mechanical analyses of both natural and synthetic composites will be described.