Biomimetic Surface Texturing with Tunable Stimulus-Responsive Friction Anisotropy

Micro- and nano-structures are intentionally incorporated into various biological surfaces, such as fish scales, snakeskin, and burr-covered plant leaves, to enhance their interactions with other surfaces. The mechanical anisotropy affects friction, interlocking, propulsion, and mobility on substrates. This study investigates a novel method for developing a robust, stratified, soft, lubricating coating on a surface. 3-Methacryloyloxypropyl-trimethoxysilane (MPS) is a cohesive adhesion promoter that functions by infiltrating Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) silicone elastomers to maintain low friction levels and high mechanical load-bearing capacity. MPS makes it easier for organic and inorganic materials to adhere to the surface of the initiator layer P(AAm-co-AA-co-PDMS/Fe). We investigate how the tough hydrogel layer of the module impacts the lubricating ability of the multilayer coating when the tough hydrogel layer of the module adheres to the bio-based polyurethane substrate. After 1,000 sliding cycles with a 1 N load, the improved PDMS’s Coefficient of Friction (COF) remains steady and low (COF < 0.81). We recommend using the suggested structure and a standard set of optimal variables to enhance the functional efficiency of such systems. In conclusion, we have demonstrated the optimal simulation of these parameters for stimulus-responsive, adjustable surface systems.