Biologically Inspired Adhesive Microstructure

The merits of a strong, detachable and durable (self-cleaning) dry adhesive system, which is inspired by gecko-foot hair, will be validated. The proposed system comprises micro-scale fibers exposed on a composite surface, upon which aligned nanotubes or nanofibers are deposited. Photocatalytic and superhydrophilic phenoemna are employed to provide the system with self-cleaning capabilities. Buckling/bending of micro- and nanoscale fibers as well as the contact mechanics of nanofibers yield massive molecular (van der Waals) interactions which render high adhesion capacity. The detachment mechanism relies on fracture mechanics concepts where an angular separation facilitates progressive dissociation of surfaces. The proposed Phase I research will: (i) develop a preliminary system design based on mechanics principles and molecular (van der Waals) interactions; (ii) adapt the directed self-assembly process toward fabricaiton of the dry adhesion system; (iii) determine the mechanical performance, self-cleaning attributes and detachment characteristics of the system; and (iv) assess the technical potential and commercial promise of the dry adhesion system.