Interface Gecko-Inspired Adhesive Carpet Tiles — Interface

Biological model: Gecko lizard (Gekkota sp.)

Company: Interface

Interface developed glue-free carpet tiles using gecko-inspired dry adhesive principles. The tiles use van der Waals forces to create reusable, pressure-sensitive attachment without permanent adhesives.

The challenge

Traditional carpet tile adhesives are permanent, toxic, waste-generating, and prevent reuse and repositioning

Nature's strategy

Gecko lizard (Gekkota sp.) foot structure and adhesion mechanism

What was emulated

Microscopic setae structures that create van der Waals intermolecular forces

The innovation

Gecko-inspired dry adhesive backing using van der Waals forces for reusable tile attachment

Full case study

Building on gecko foot research, Interface created adhesive-free carpet tiles that use van der Waals forces for attachment. Gecko feet contain millions of microscopic setae (hair-like structures) that create van der Waals intermolecular forces, allowing geckos to cling to any surface without adhesive. Interface adapted this principle to create carpet tiles with micro-structured backing that grips flooring without permanent adhesive. The dry adhesive system is completely reusable and repositionable, allowing tiles to be moved, replaced, or rearranged without leaving residue or damaging floors. This represents a major advancement in sustainable flooring: traditional carpet tiles require permanent adhesive, damaging substrates and creating waste when replaced. The gecko-inspired system allows for infinite repositioning and reuse. The technology works on a variety of floor types including concrete, vinyl, and existing flooring. The innovation dramatically reduces installation time, eliminates harmful adhesive VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and enables truly modular flooring systems where tiles can be swapped individually.