Plasmonic Hydrogel Actuators for Octopus-Inspired Photo/Thermoresponsive Smart Adhesive Patch

Area of Science:

• Biomimetics and Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Soft Robotics

Background:

• Octopuses utilize efficient pressure control in suction cups for dynamic adhesion.
• Existing adhesion technologies often lack precise control or require external pressure.
• Mimicking natural adhesion mechanisms offers novel solutions for advanced materials and devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a smart adhesive patch inspired by octopus suckers with switchable adhesion.
• To integrate near-infrared (NIR) light and temperature responsiveness for adhesion control.
• To demonstrate the patch's utility in transferring delicate materials like ultrathin films and biosensors.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of an elastic, nanohole-patterned elastomer mimicking octopus sucker structure.
• Coating the patch with gold nanostars (GNSs) for NIR light-induced photothermal effect.
• Incorporation of a thermoresponsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) hydrogel as a volumetric actuator for pressure regulation.

Main Results:

• The Plasmonic AdPatch demonstrated strong suction adhesion (134 kPa at 45 °C, 71 kPa at 85 mW cm⁻²).
• Adhesion is switchable and controllable via temperature changes or NIR light exposure.
• The patch achieved light-triggered remote adhesion without external pressure.

Conclusions:

• The Plasmonic AdPatch successfully mimics octopus sucker adhesion using biomimetic design and responsive materials.
• This technology offers a novel, non-damaging method for handling fragile materials and biosensors.
• The AdPatch presents a promising platform for applications requiring controlled, remote adhesion.