Mechanics of the Adhesive Properties of Ivy Nanoparticles

Mechanics of the Adhesive Properties of Ivy Nanoparticles Report Title The research objective of this proposal is to study the fundamental mechanics and mechanical properties of the nanoparticles-based adhesive secretion produced by ivy rootlets for surface affixing and climbing. Both experimental and theoretical studies will be conducted. More generally, we aim to use insight from nature to elucidate theoretical principles governing the extraordinary adhesive properties of ivy. The specific aims are: Specific Aim 1: Characterize the intraand intermolecular bonding forces and determine how they can be used to explain interactions that exist both between components of the ivy adhesive secretion and between the secretion and the affixing surface. Specific Aim 2: Characterize the macroscopic mechanical properties of natural ivy secretions. Specific Aim 3: Determine structure-property relationships via systematic alteration of the composition of the natural ivy secretions. Specific Aim 4: Build finite element models (FEM) to quantitatively characterize and interpret the adhesive properties of ivy nanoparticles. If successful, this research will elucidate the fundamental role of nanoparticles in determining the mechanical properties of ivy surface affixing secretions, and will inspire bio-mimetic approaches for design of new materials with superior surface adhesion for military applications. (a) Papers published in peer-reviewed journals (N/A for none) Enter List of papers submitted or published that acknowledge ARO support from the start of the project to the date of this printing. List the papers, including journal references, in the following categories: