Bioinspired hook surfaces based upon a ubiquitous weed (Galium aparine) for dry adhesion

Abstract

Galium aparine is a plant noted for its ability to attach to solid objects through its microscopic hooked trichomes via a hook and loop mechanism. This dry adhesive behaviour has been mimicked using a simple and inexpensive epoxy resin replica moulding technique. Enhancement of adhesion strength is achieved by varying the epoxy resin replicas’ Young’s modulus in order to provide strong hook and loop interlocking, whilst retaining sufficient bulk material flexibility for subsequent detachment via a hook uncurling mechanism.