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Biomimetics: What Can We Learn From Arachnids?

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Attachment Structures and Adhesive Secretions in Arachnids

Part of the book series: Biologically-Inspired Systems ((BISY,volume 7))

Abstract

In this chapter we discuss features rendering arachnids interesting models for the development of biomimetic adhesive materials and attachment systems. Geckoes have been established as a model for the development of dry adhesive materials. Spiders and trombidiform mites exhibit very similar adhesive structures to those of geckoes, and can be much easier maintained in the lab and manipulated in experiments. Complex hierarchical tenent setae are still not technically reproducible in all essential details, and existing ‘gecko-inspired’ adhesives are still very limited in their performance in the real world applications. The alternative structure of the spatulate adhesive surfaces of whip-spider feet may represent a new source of inspiration. We further present some unique principles recently explored in arachnids that may inspire the next generation of biomimetic adhesive materials, gripping devices, and glue applications. These are (1) the smart glue application in spider silk anchors, (2) the adhesive nano-fibre-mats of cribellar capture threads, (3) the prehensile feet of harvestmen, (4) the transverse stripe-shaped contact of some arolia, (5) the pressure sensitive adhesives of spider capture threads and harvestmen, (6) the droplet retaining hairs of harvestmen, and (7) the miniature suction cups of mites.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute Kiel University, Kiel, Germany

    Jonas O. Wolff & Stanislav N. Gorb

  2. Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia

    Jonas O. Wolff

Authors
  1. Jonas O. Wolff
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  2. Stanislav N. Gorb
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Wolff, J.O., Gorb, S.N. (2016). Biomimetics: What Can We Learn From Arachnids?. In: Attachment Structures and Adhesive Secretions in Arachnids. Biologically-Inspired Systems, vol 7. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-45713-0_11

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