Multiscale crack trapping for programmable adhesives | Science Advances

The precise control of crack propagation at bonded interfaces is crucial for smart adhesives with advanced performance. However, previous studies have primarily concentrated on either microscale or macroscale crack propagation. Here, we present a hybrid adhesive that integrates microarchitectures and macroscopic nonlinear cut architectures for unparalleled adhesion control. The integration of these architectural elements enables conformal attachment and simultaneous crack trapping across multiple scales for high capacity, enhancing adhesion by more than 70×, while facilitating crack propagation at the macroscale in specific directions for programmable release and reusability. As adhesion strength and directionality can be independently controlled at any location, skin adhesive patches are created that are breathable, nondamaging, and exceptionally strong and secure yet remove easily. These capabilities are demonstrated with a skin-mounted adhesive patch with integrated electronics that accurately detects human motion and wirelessly transmits signals, enabling real-time control of avatars in virtual reality applications.