Smart Materials Used In Gecko Adhesive Makes Spiderman-Like Climbing Possible

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In the future, fans can be like their favorite superhero, Spiderman. At least for those who have extra cash to spend on a super sticky spider boots backed up by a strong adhesive.

Recently, a group of German researchers has produced an adhesive that contains "azobenzene" -- a molecule that locks in the presence of UV light. Zoological Institute at Kiel University's researcher, Dr. Emre Kizilkan told Gizmodo that their goal is to create an adhesive that humans can use to climb surfaces.

Dr. Kizilkan, the lead author of the study, stated that a 20-centimeter square piece will be used to carry a man up, however, they have not put the product into a test with people.

Bioinspired Photocontrollable Microstructured Transport Device (BIPMTD)is the material that will be used and it is inspired by a gecko-like design placed over the sticky azobenzene film. It has a mushroom-shaped structured surface that sticks up to whatever it is in contact with. It also uses a Van Der Waals force that makes neighboring molecules to become drawn to one another. (via DailyMail)

Despite the weak forces produced, the effect will be multiplied by thousands of diminutive hair that will include their toes. As a result, it will stick firmly to the chosen surface. Meanwhile, the BIPMTD, when litten by the UV light, will curl up, unsticking itself, and reducing its contact to almost any flat surface. On the other hand, it turns into a flat sticky rate once the UV light has been turned off.

The study conducted gave researchers the understanding of about the stickiness of the material when used on different kinds of objects. Tests were conducted and one of which involves "picking up flat, 2-D surfaces" while the UV light is off. Then, the light will be turned on, causing it to curl up and stick to objects. The best thing about it, perhaps, is that it doesn't leave any residue and it produces outcomes that are reversible.