Waterproof Biodegradable Adhesive Bandage — Harvard University / MIT, Jeffrey Karp laboratory

Biological model: Gecko toe pads

Company: Harvard University / MIT, Jeffrey Karp laboratory

A waterproof, biodegradable adhesive bandage developed using gecko-inspired dry adhesion technology that mimics the van der Waals forces in gecko toe pads.

The challenge

Current adhesive bandages lose adhesion when wet, causing patient discomfort and requiring frequent replacement. Conventional adhesives can irritate skin and generate plastic waste.

Nature's strategy

Gecko toe pads (Tokay gecko and other species)

What was emulated

Hierarchical micro and nano-scale structures that create adhesion through van der Waals forces without chemical stickiness

The innovation

Gecko-inspired dry adhesion surface that uses van der Waals forces for waterproof attachment with biodegradable materials.

Full case study

Jeffrey Karp's team at Harvard and MIT developed an adhesive bandage technology inspired by gecko feet. Gecko toe pads use millions of tiny hierarchical structures that generate adhesion through van der Waals forces without any sticky chemicals. This allows geckos to stick to almost any surface and detach without damage. The team translated this principle into a biocompatible, waterproof bandage that adheres strongly to skin even when wet, yet can be removed cleanly without irritation. The adhesive is biodegradable, addressing a major limitation of conventional medical tapes.