Enhancing adhesion of elastomeric composites through facile patterning of surface discontinuities

Patterning interfaces can provide enhanced adhesion over a projected area. However, careful consideration of the material properties and geometry must be applied to provide successful reversible adhesives. We present a simple method to use patterned, elastomeric fabric composites to enhance the shear adhesion strength by nearly 40% compared to a non-patterned sample. We describe how this enhancement depends on the pattern geometry, the velocity dependence of the adhesive materials, and the controlled displacement rate applied to the interface. Through these observations, we discuss strategies for improving reversible adhesives.