The material is inspired by Gecko bionics and based on an inorganic membrane to which hydrogel nanofibers are added on both sides. The material exhibits ultra-high friction and adhesion in an acidic liquid (pH 2), and switches rapidly to a state of ultra-low friction and stickiness in a basic solution (pH 12). Additionally, the two sides of the material can stick and slide independently of each other.

CAS news release, May 11, 2017