Multi-Bioinspired mechanically responsive surface with high adhesion modulation ratios rapidly and efficiently switch adhesion to both solids and liquids

Adhesives with switchable adhesion for both solids and liquids have become research frontier because of their broad application potential in fields such as biomedicine and soft grippers. However, these adhesives simultaneously achieving high adhesion modulation ratios for both solids and liquids remain challenge, because high surface free energy and large contact area make the adhesives lose the ability to control liquid adhesion. In this study, we integrated the adhesive concepts of the lotus leaf, gecko, and mesovelia to design a mechanically responsive adhesive surface (MRAS), which consists of a low adhesion background mesh (LABM) similar to lotus leaves and high adhesion pillar array that mimics geckos. Similar to the adhesion-regulating mechanism of mesovelia, this MRAS enables reversible adhesion switching by mechanically controlling the protrusion/retraction of pillars on the LABM. The MRAS can regulate adhesion force by altering the surface chemistry of pillars and the contact state between the pillars and solids/liquids. The MRAS can achieve high adhesion modulation ratios of 260 for solids and 105 for liquids, and can switch adhesion rapidly (less than 1 s) and efficiently. These capabilities allow the MRAS to manipulate various solids and liquids. Additionally, it enables the programmable control of solids and liquids. This research could provide new strategies for applying switchable adhesive surfaces in various fields.