NASA Invented a Gecko Adhesive That Can Stick Stuff Together in Space
Charlotte Joyce Kidd — August 17, 2015 — Unique
NASA is developing a 'Gecko Adhesive' so strong that it can anchor robots to the outside of the International Space Station.
The engineers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab were inspired by the tiny micro-hairs the grow on the soles of geckos' feet. These hairs create a slight electric charge between the gecko's toe pads and the surface the gecko is clinging to, creating a bond that cannot be broken by extreme heat or pressure. The Gecko Adhesive is a super tape that leaves no residue behind, doesn't require another surface to adhere to like Velcro does and it can be reused multiple times.
For now, NASA is exploring Gecko Adhesive's applications in space travel -- allowing small robots to conduct checks and repairs on the outside of the International Space Station, for example -- but when this magic stuff hits hardware stores, it's going to change tape forever.
The engineers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab were inspired by the tiny micro-hairs the grow on the soles of geckos' feet. These hairs create a slight electric charge between the gecko's toe pads and the surface the gecko is clinging to, creating a bond that cannot be broken by extreme heat or pressure. The Gecko Adhesive is a super tape that leaves no residue behind, doesn't require another surface to adhere to like Velcro does and it can be reused multiple times.
For now, NASA is exploring Gecko Adhesive's applications in space travel -- allowing small robots to conduct checks and repairs on the outside of the International Space Station, for example -- but when this magic stuff hits hardware stores, it's going to change tape forever.
Trend Themes
1. Bio-inspired Adhesives - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Apply the concept of gecko-inspired adhesives to various industries, such as construction and manufacturing, to create strong, reusable adhesives that leave no residue.
2. Reusable Adhesive Technology - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop reusable adhesive products that eliminate the need for additional surfaces, offering a more efficient and versatile alternative to traditional adhesives.
3. Smart Adhesive Solutions - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Combine gecko-inspired adhesive technology with IoT capabilities to create adhesive materials that can autonomously adjust their bonding strength based on environmental factors.
Industry Implications
1. Construction - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Utilize gecko-inspired adhesives to revolutionize the construction industry by enabling stronger and more sustainable bonding solutions for various materials.
2. Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate gecko-inspired adhesives into manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance the performance of products.
3. Aerospace - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Implement gecko-inspired adhesive technology in aerospace industries to enhance the durability and reliability of materials used in space exploration and aircraft manufacturing.
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