A new generation of adhesive tape, without glue, can be removed without irritation

Soon the pain and irritation when a bandage is removed will be over thanks to a new technology inspired by octopus suction cups.

During a hospital visit, electrodes may be placed on a patient. This is usually not a problem, but when it comes to removing them, they can cause irritation, redness, or even hair removal if removed too forcefully.

This is obviously because there is a chemical adhesive, glue, that can react with the skin. That is why, for years, an alternative solution has been sought and it may have been found in a new type of adhesive inspired by octopuses.

It works like micro-suction cups by creating a vacuum when applied. Which gives it several advantages. First of all, there is no chemical product, since it adheres by suction. Then, it works even if there is hair or moisture. Finally, it is reusable, several times, without losing its adhesive power. Its biggest advantage is that it does not hurt when removed, thanks to a small tab that reverses the suction process. Which allows it to be removed effortlessly, without pain and without redness.

Several such adhesives already exist in labs, but researchers at Kaust University in Saudi Arabia have now found a way to manufacture them on a large scale and at a low cost. Which finally makes them commercially viable. To do this, they relied on a 3D printing technique to make a mold with the microscopic patterns of the suction cups. A mold into which the base material of the adhesive is then poured.

This new technology therefore heralds a new generation of reusable adhesive bandage, which can be removed painlessly, which works in water and which no longer irritates the skin. Before doing so, it will still be necessary to validate this invention by more substantial clinical studies than those conducted so far. (link in English).