Pennsylvania researchers have presented in the Journal of the American Chemical Society the material that adheres to heating and cooling. The adhesive is easily attached to the metals and if placed slightly at 80ºC it is released. When heated, it loses 44% of its ability to adhere and becomes hydrophobic.
The new material is similar to velcro, adheres by hooks, but these are attached to springs that become more flexible or rigid depending on the temperature. Inventors believe the new adhesive can be used in surgery or shipbuilding.