Caracterización de las propiedades nanoscópicas de los pétalos de las plantas Begonia semperflorens y Begonia x hiemalis

Abstract

This study focuses on the characterization of nano-scale properties of the petals of Begonia semperflorens and Begonia x hiemalis plants, aiming to understand their relevance in biomimetics and the development of innovative solutions. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) was employed to analyze the topography of nanostructures present on the petals. Additionally, optical analyses and contact angle measurements were conducted to investigate the petals' hydrophobic properties. Significant structural differences were observed between the studied species. Begonia x hiemalis petals displayed elongated grooves, while Begonia semperflorens petals exhibited a denser structure with smaller and sinuous edges. These differences were reflected in the contact angle measurements, with Begonia x hiemalis petals being highly hydrophobic (average contact angle of 124.622) and Begonia semperflorens petals being more hydrophilic (average contact angle of 86.473). These findings highlight the diversity and complexity of nanoscale properties in Begonia petals, with implications in biomimetics and the development of nature-inspired materials and technologies. This study provides a solid foundation for future research in the characterization of nanostructures in plants, with potential applications in various scientific and technological fields.