Gecko tape

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the University of Akron have created a new form of tape based on nanotubes. The entire design is inspired by the way that the gecko’s feet stick to sheer surfaces. Allowing the gecko to climb up completely vertical walls. On a gecko, thousands of tiny cilia like hairs are located on the pads of its feet. Allowing it to grip with great force surfaces that would seem to be completely flat.

The researchers have mimicked this using thousands of carbon nanotubes. They claim that the tape they have developed, has four times the gripping power of a gecko’s foot pad.With technology like this, how long can it be before we can put on a pair of shoes and walk up walls. LOL

Via PhysOrg: Nanotube adhesive sticks better than a gecko’s foot