Surface chemistry of the ladybird beetle adhesive foot fluid across various substrates

Abstract

Note: This paper is part of the Biointerphases Special Topic Collection on Biomimetics of Biointerfaces.

Bio-inspired materials to control and minimise insect attachment

“…Furthermore, additional research is needed to verify the hypothesis that there is a direct correlation between the specialization of friction pads and body size [53]. Experimental evidence showing the non-Newtonian nature of adhesive fluid has only recently been confirmed [105]. Current tribological models revealed that both the interfacial interactions between the fluid and substrate as well as the chemistry of the bulk play an equally important role for establishing shear-thinning properties [105,291].…”

“…Experimental evidence showing the non-Newtonian nature of adhesive fluid has only recently been confirmed [105]. Current tribological models revealed that both the interfacial interactions between the fluid and substrate as well as the chemistry of the bulk play an equally important role for establishing shear-thinning properties [105,291]. Therefore, further nano-tribological investigations are needed to gain additional insights into the origin of the observed friction forces of various insect species.…”

“…Recent results hint towards more complex models, incorporating non-Newtonian properties of the adhesive fluid or the deformation of the adhesive organ and thus increased contact areas [1]. Possible nanotribological models as well as boundary lubrication mechanisms will likely replace the 'classic' models explaining the observed friction forces [85,105]. With substantial research efforts in this field, there are still several open questions, including the exact physics of adhesion underlying the locomotion of the insects.…”