Researchers from the University of Massachusetts describe the GeckoSkin, an adhesive device based on the legs of the gecko, with which they managed to stick an accessory weighing over 300 kg to the wall
Many researchers are looking for adhesive solutions for different types of surfaces. Researchers from the University of Massachusetts describe the GeckoSkin, an adhesive device based on the legs of the gecko, with which they managed to stick an accessory weighing over 300 kg to the wall. The gluing accessory has a strong gluing ability, but equally important - the ability to detach quickly and without leaving marks.
According to the researchers, a gecko weighing about 100 grams can climb a wall while carrying a weight of about three kilograms. Inspired by the gecko's legs and skin, the researchers developed the GeckSkin. The GeckoSkin is an adhesive that allows you to adhere firmly to a wide range of surfaces, including surfaces as smooth as glass, and hold a heavy load. Unlike other materials inspired by gecko feet, the glue described does not mimic the structure of the nanoscopic hairs as described in previous developments, but was developed after a thorough study of the gecko foot including the bones, tendons and skin. The attachment accessory adheres through maximum surface matching, and the key to creating a strong adhesion, according to them, is maximum adaptation of the attachment accessory to the surface while maximizing rigidity.
In GeckoSkin, the researchers created this ability by combining a soft elastomer with an ultra-tough fabric, such as glass or carbon fiber. By adjusting the relative stiffness of the two materials, they can tailor the adhesive to a wide range of applications.
To confirm their claim, the researchers compared three versions of their glue to a real gecko on several surfaces, and found that their theory does match the animal model and in some cases even surpasses it.
The gecko's ability to stick to different surfaces is critical to its survival in the wild, and the quality of release and reattachment is just as important. The GeckoSkin enables an adhesive ability very similar to that of the gecko on common types of surfaces, and in fact opens the door to the use of this technology for various applications at home, in the office and outdoors.
Source of knowledge
For a previous article on the subject on the Hidaan website: Ravev did not stick to it
