A self-cleaning adhesive tape inspired by the feet of geckos has been developed that stays sticky even on dusty surfaces.
Scientists followed nature's lead to come up with a dry material covered in clinging microscopic hairs.
Like a gecko's toe pads, they automatically rid themselves of larger dust particles through friction, while smaller grains disappear into grooves between the hairs.
In future, the tape could be used as an alternative to Velcro hook and loop fasteners, or to produce first aid bandages that can be opened and closed several times, say the researchers.
It took scientists many years to figure out how geckos are able to scurry up vertical walls and even hang upside down from ceilings.
The lizards employ no glue or suction devices.
Instead, millions of tiny hairs on each toe exploit an electrical quantum effect that maintains a firm grip even on polished glass.
Molecules and atoms exert a weak attraction when they are brought extremely close together due to Van der Waals forces which involve the random movement of electrons.
Because of the large number of microhairs on its feet, the gecko is able to amply the effect until it greatly outweighs gravity.
The new sticky material developed by German and US scientists employs artificial elastic mushroom-shaped microhairs.
