High Load Capacity, Easy Release and Reusable Adhesive Devices
This technology provides a new class of adhesive devices having an unprecedented combination of properties to allow for supporting high-weight objects, and even climbing. These devices have novel, yet simple, constructions with a cleanable adhesive surface, and can be fabricated at low cost with commercially available materials. They are inherently non-tacky, reusable, and can be easily applied to and released from their target surfaces without damaging the surfaces. This technology represents a breakthrough in the design and development of nature-inspired adhesives on macroscopic length scale with “gecko-like” attributes.
Reusable adhesive devices for supporting
- shelving systems
- electronic appliances (TVs, monitors/screens, stereos, etc.)
- hanging structures
Wearable adhesive devices for facilitating climbing on substantially flat surfaces
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High load capacity: the novel adhesive devices can support weight up to 43 pounds per square inch of adhesive surface, for both normal and shear loadings.
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Ease of adhesion and release: The adhesive can be applied over large interfacial areas with ease of application and release.
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High reusability: The devices can be used repeastedly with negligible degradation in performance.
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Low cost, scalable fabrication: The manufacturing process for the adhesive devices is simple, economical and scalable. It does not require the use of complex surface patterning techniques or cost-prohibitve materials.
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Wide applicability: From supporting hanging structures to facilitating climbing, the adhesive devices can be used on surfaces made of a variety of materials, such as glass, wood, metal and plasterboard.
Patent Pending
Ling X. Shen, Ph.D., M.B.A.
Licensing Officer
Commercial Ventures and Intellectual Property
Phone: 413-545-5276
E-mail: lxshen@research.umass.edu