Researchers at Tufts University in the United States have drawn inspiration from the natural world and superhero comics to develop a new technology that releases a liquid material capable of transforming into strong adhesive fibers, reminiscent of the abilities of “Spider-Man.” These fibers allow objects to be captured and lifted remotely using a material derived from moth cocoons, according to “Interesting Engineering.”
The fibers are produced using silk proteins extracted from cocoons, which solidify upon contact with air when certain components, such as dopamine, are added. Thanks to this technology, the fibers can adhere to objects and lift weights up to 80 times their own weight. The researchers successfully demonstrated the fibers’ capability by lifting objects like a cocoon, steel nails, and a wooden block from a distance of about 12 centimeters.
The foundation for this technology was discovered accidentally when the lead researcher, Marco LeBrisny, noticed a sticky web forming while cleaning glassware with acetone. It later became evident that incorporating dopamine into the silk solution accelerated the fibers’ immediate solidification process. The adhesive properties of the fibers were further enhanced by adding chitosan extracted from insects.
This technology opens up vast possibilities across various fields such as robotics and medicine, where it can be used to accurately lift small objects or produce strong underwater adhesives. While natural spider silk remains much stronger than these synthetic fibers, researchers believe the developmental potential of this technology is substantial.
Fiorenzo Omenetto, Professor of Engineering at Tufts University, noted that this project merges science fiction with engineering innovation, where researchers draw inspiration from nature and comic books to create sustainable materials with broad practical applications.
