Plasmonic Hydrogel Actuators for Octopus-Inspired Photo/Thermoresponsive Smart Adhesive Patch

Octopuses are notable creatures that can dynamically adhere to a variety of substrates owing to the efficient pressure control within their suction cups. An octopus' suckers are sealed at the rim and function by reducing the pressure inside the cavity, thereby creating a pressure difference between the ambient environment and the inner cavity. Inspired by this mechanism, we developed a plasmonic smart adhesive patch (Plasmonic AdPatch) with switchable adhesion in response to both temperature changes and near-infrared (NIR) light. The AdPatch incorporates an elastic, nanohole-patterned elastomer that mimics the structure of octopus suckers. Additionally, a monolayer of gold nanostars (GNSs) is coated on the patch, facilitating a NIR light-responsive photothermal effect. A musclelike, thermoresponsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) hydrogel functions as a volumetric actuator to regulate cavity pressure. When exposed to heat or light, the PNIPAM hydrogel shrinks, enabling the AdPatch to achieve strong suction adhesion (134 kPa at 45 °C, 71 kPa at 85 mW cm–2). Owing to its capability to achieve light-triggered remote adhesion without the need for external pressure, the Plasmonic AdPatch can be employed to transfer ultrathin films and biosensors to fragile organs without causing damage.