Shark Skin-Inspired Tech Set to Revolutionise Aviation Emissions

An Australian start-up is using shark skin-inspired technology to slash aviation emissions. MicroTau's adhesive coating boosts aircraft efficiency by up to 4%, offering a game-changing solution for the aviation industry's sustainability goals.

Shark Skin Innovation Promises Cleaner Skies

Sydney, June 2025 – In an unassuming laboratory in Sydney, a revolutionary technology is being developed—one that could dramatically cut global aviation emissions. The innovation, a thin transparent film designed to mimic shark skin, has been developed by Australian start-up MicroTau, and it’s already drawing the attention of major airlines and defence organisations.

The material, which adheres to the fuselage of aircraft like a sticker, is not just inspired by nature—it could reshape the future of flight. Unlike existing solutions requiring expensive fleet replacements or retrofits, MicroTau’s shark skin-like coating can be applied directly to existing planes, making it a cost-effective, scalable solution for emission reduction.

MicroTau: Reducing Drag, Fuel Use and Emissions

“This is a game-changing innovation,” said Rebecca Lodin, an engineer at MicroTau. “Many airlines want to lower their emissions, but current technologies often require years to implement. What makes our product unique is that it can be applied to aircraft already flying today.”

The science is rooted in biomimicry. Sharks are known for their uniquely textured skin, which reduces drag as they glide through water. MicroTau’s synthetic version replicates this rough, sandpaper-like texture to improve airflow over aircraft surfaces, reducing turbulence and lowering fuel consumption in the process.

Placed like a decal or airline logo, the coating is made using a manufacturing technique similar to microchip fabrication. Patterns of ultraviolet light are projected onto a special resin, curing the adhesive into microscopic ridges that emulate shark skin.

Early Trials and Promising Partnerships

According to Lodin, the results are promising: “Our coating has demonstrated efficiency gains of up to 4%. That might sound small, but for airlines, it translates into major fuel savings and a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions.”

MicroTau is already collaborating with major industry players. The company has tested its technology on a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft with the US Air Force and secured a commercial partnership with Delta Airlines for integration on Boeing 767s. Most recently, MicroTau signed its first European deal with Spanish carrier Vueling, which will help the start-up certify the product for widespread use.

“We’re currently preparing for large-scale production,” Lodin added. “Our goal is to increase efficiency beyond the current 4% and hit 5% or more with the next generation of our technology.”

Global Impact and Future Ambitions

MicroTau’s innovation comes at a critical time. According to the International Energy Agency, aviation was responsible for 2.5% of global CO₂ emissions in 2023, nearly 950 million tonnes—a figure close to pre-pandemic levels. With air travel continuing to rebound, scalable, low-cost solutions are urgently needed.

Looking ahead, the company has set its sights on the maritime sector, aiming to replicate its success by applying shark skin-inspired materials to ships and marine vessels, where drag and fuel use are also major concerns.

In a world seeking sustainable innovation, MicroTau’s shark skin technology could be the answer aviation—and the planet—has been waiting for.