Chemo-Mechanical Due-Biomimetic Approach for Ultra-Stable Adsorption Across Multiple Scenarios.

Area of Science:

• Biomimetics and Materials Science
• Robotics and Soft Matter Engineering

Background:

• Soft-bodied organisms like leeches and octopuses exhibit unique adhesion capabilities.
• Previous research focused on either artificial sucker design or adhesive material synthesis, neglecting their combination.
• Investigating the synergy between sucker structures and adhesive materials is crucial for advanced adhesion technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a biomimetic approach combining artificial suckers and mucus for enhanced adhesion stability.
• To investigate the effectiveness of mucus in maintaining adhesion on rough surfaces.
• To develop reliable, centimeter-scale adhesion devices inspired by leech adsorption.

Main Methods:

• Development of biomimetic silicone suction cups (5 cm diameter) coated with a mucus-like adhesive.
• Testing adhesion force on smooth and rough surfaces (e.g., 40-mesh substrates).
• Evaluating adhesion stability by measuring force retention and gas leakage prevention.

Main Results:

• Mucus-coated suction cups maintained over 95% of adhesion force on rough surfaces compared to smooth surfaces.
• The mucus formed a liquid seal, effectively preventing gas leakage on uneven substrates.
• Demonstrated stable adhesion across various scenarios and real-world objects.

Conclusions:

• A straightforward method for achieving reliable adhesion with centimeter-scale suction cups was presented.
• The biomimetic approach combining artificial suckers and mucus significantly enhances adhesion stability on rough surfaces.
• This strategy opens new avenues for developing commercially viable adhesion devices.