Controlling surface forces through nano/microstructure represents an important advancement in tribology. Primarily it suggests the possibility of fabricating adhesive and friction pads from a vast range of materials and processing methods, hence allowing for the production of tribological surfaces that are cheap, bio-compatible, durable, temperature resistant, and self-cleaning. Current research in this area draws inspiration from gecko lizards, which achieve rapid wall-climbing with arrays of keratinous, micron-sized fibers. This work explores the central role of the microfiber array in gecko wall-climbing and applies these insights to the development of adhesive and ultra-high friction surfaces from otherwise non-adhesive, low friction materials.
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