Self-healing cellulose nanocrystal reinforced bio-adhesive coatings
A reversible, self-healing bio-adhesive coating utilizing a bistable adhesive polymer with cellulose nanocrystals, adaptable for skin applications through temperature-sensitive adhesion properties.
Overview
The self-healing cellulose nanocrystal reinforced bio-adhesive coating represents a novel approach to skin adhesion technology. By leveraging a bistable adhesive polymer (BAP) that includes stearyl acrylate (SA) and tetradecyl acrylate (TA), this technology offers reversible adhesion properties. At temperatures above 32°C, the adhesive demonstrates high tackiness and strong adhesion suitable for electronic skin (E-skin) applications. At temperatures below 26°C, it becomes non-tacky and easily removable, providing a durable, reusable solution for dynamic skin adhesion needs. This adhesive is also capable of self-healing, ensuring longevity and structural integrity under stress.
Technical specifications
- Composition: The BAP is grafted onto cellulose nanocrystals, providing reinforcement for increased toughness.
- Temperature-responsive adhesion: Exhibits a semicrystalline-to-amorphous transition between 26°C and 32°C, facilitating reversible adhesion.
- Self-healing properties: Under stress, the polymer undergoes molecular realignment to maintain structural integrity.
- Biocompatibility: Designed for safe application on skin, with in vitro and in vivo testing planned for biocompatibility and irritation.
- Customization: Capable of incorporating dyes, inks, and colorants for varied applications.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 5, the adhesive has undergone laboratory validation. Future work includes synthesis and characterization, adhesion testing, durability assessments, and biocompatibility studies to further advance its readiness for commercial application.
About North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University is a large, comprehensive public land‑grant research university in Raleigh. Its on‑campus research and technology park co‑locates corporate R&D groups, government partners, and faculty labs, enabling shared facilities, prototyping, and agile contracting. Located in North Carolina’s Research Triangle, partners tap a dense regional ecosystem while engaging through a statewide extension network and a mature co‑op program that deliver field deployment and workforce pipelines. Multiple pilot and demonstration facilities support scale‑up and validation toward pre‑commercial readiness. Research is supported by competitive funding from major federal agencies, including NSF, USDA, DOE, and DOD, and a dedicated technology transfer office with clear IP pathways helps accelerate commercialization.
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