Anti-icing properties of polar bear fur

• DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ads7321
• Publication Date: 2025-01-29T19:00:04Z
• Authors: Julian Carolan; Martin Jakubec; Neubi F. Xavier; Adam Pestana Motala; Ersilia Bifulco; Jon Aars; Magnus Andersen; Anne Lisbeth Schmidt; Marc Brunet Cabré; Vikaramjeet Singh; Paula E. Colavita; Espen Werdal Selfors; Marco Sacchi; Shane O’Reilly; Øyvind Halskau; Manish K. Tiwari; Richard G. Hobbs; Bodil Holst
• Keywords: Ursus maritimus; Squalene; Blubber

The polar bear ( Ursus maritimus ) is the only Arctic land mammal that dives into water to hunt. Despite thermal insulation provided by blubber and fur layers low temperatures, their typically observed be free of ice. This study investigates anti-icing properties fur. Here, we show exhibits ice adhesion strengths comparable fluorocarbon-coated fibers, with a consequence sebum (hair grease). Lipid analyses reveal presence cholesterol, diacylglycerols, anteisomethyl-branched fatty acids, unexpected absence squalene. Quantum chemical calculations predict adsorption energies for identified lipids high squalene, suggesting composition responsible properties. Our work enhances understanding bears interactions environment builds on Inuit knowledge natural materials.