... the adhesive system behaves in ecologically relevant conditions. Geckos inhabit a variety of environments, many of which are characterized by high temperature, humidity and rain. The van der Waals-based gecko adhesive system should be particularly challenged by wet substrates because water can disrupt...

... have significant consequences for the ecology and behavior of geckos living in tropical environments. * Author for correspondence ( ays3@zips.uakron.edu ) 22 3 2012 13 5 2012 © 2012. 2012 gecko adhesion superhydrophobicity wetting van der Waals Geckos are common...

... that van der Waals forces are sufficient for strong adhesion and friction in gecko setae, and that water-based capillary adhesion is not required. However, recent studies demonstrated that adhesion increases with relative humidity (RH) and proposed that surface hydration and capillary water bridge...