Fabrication of a biomimetic controllable adhesive surface by ultraprecision multistep and layered scribing and casting molding

Wedge-shaped microstructures have the ability to reproduce the excellent adhesive properties of geckos’ feet because of their unique anisotropic structure. In particular, the controllability of the wedge-shaped microstructures on adhesion is beneficial to the undisturbed grasp or the capture of space targets. However, the problem currently remains of how to process it efficiently and with high quality. Here a strategy called ultraprecision multistep and layered scribing is proposed for the manufacture of the biomimetic controllable adhesive surface. The results show that the metal master mold prepared based on the manufacturing strategy has not only good surface topography but also high reliability and durability. Furthermore, the controllable adhesive surface of 1.96 cm2, fabricated by the proposed manufacturing strategy, has a normal adhesion of 1.012 N, and the corresponding shear friction and adhesion coefficient are 3.105 N and 4.82, respectively. Additionally, the controllable adhesive surface has been shown to be approximately superhydrophobic and also to possess the properties of controllable adhesion and dynamic adhesion. Also, after 250 adhesion-detachment cycles, the normal adhesion and shear friction only decrease by 5% and 3%, respectively. The research realizes an environmentally friendly and efficient method by which to manufacture a durable metal mold for fabricating a biomimetic controllable adhesive surface, laying a foundation for its effective application in the adherence of space-floating targets.