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Synergistic adhesion mechanisms of spider capture silk.

ABSTRACT: It is well known that capture silk, the main sticky component of the orb web of a spider, plays an important role in the spider's ability to capture prey via adhesion. However, the detailed mechanism with which the spider achieves its unparalleled high-adhesion performance remains elusive. In this work, we combine experiments and theoretical analysis to investigate the adhesion mechanisms of spider silk. In addition to the widely recognized adhesion effect of the sticky glue, we reveal a synergistic enhancement mechanism due to the elasticity of silk fibres. A balance between silk stiffness, strength and glue stickiness is crucial to endow the silk with superior adhesion, as well as outstanding energy absorption capacity and structural robustness. The revealed mechanisms deepen our understanding of the working principles of spider silk and suggest guidelines for biomimetic designs of spider-inspired adhesion and capture devices.

SUBMITTER: Guo Y

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5908530 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Synergistic adhesion mechanisms of spider capture silk.

Guo Yang Y Chang Zheng Z Guo Hao-Yuan HY Fang Wei W Li Qunyang Q Zhao Hong-Ping HP Feng Xi-Qiao XQ Gao Huajian H

Journal of the Royal Society, Interface 20180301 140

It is well known that capture silk, the main sticky component of the orb web of a spider, plays an important role in the spider's ability to capture prey via adhesion. However, the detailed mechanism with which the spider achieves its unparalleled high-adhesion performance remains elusive. In this work, we combine experiments and theoretical analysis to investigate the adhesion mechanisms of spider silk. In addition to the widely recognized adhesion effect of the sticky glue, we reveal a synergi ...[more]

PMID: 29514984

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