Bioinspired Trifunctional Patches for Adaptive and Energy-Efficient Thermal Management

https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202525966

Abstract

Nature has long inspired the intelligent and efficient design of functional materials. However, seamlessly integrating multiple functions from distinct biological origins into a single material platform remains challenging. Here, we present a scalable, bioinspired adhesive patch that monolithically integrates three synergistic functionalities: dry adhesion, thermal insulation, and thermochromism. Each function can be independently tuned through a universal bifacial microstructure and controlled material composition, enabling multifunctional integration without compromising individual performance. The large-area (∼22 in²) patch simultaneously exhibits robust dry adhesion (∼3.8 N/cm² after 100 attachment–detachment cycles), low thermal conductivity (∼0.065 W/m·K), and programmable thermochromic response. When applied to indoor surfaces, it provides passive thermal insulation, real-time ambient temperature sensing, and self-adaptive visual transformation, offering both energy savings and interactive feedback. By integrating multiple power-free functionalities in a single patch, this work lays the foundation for intelligent material systems for sustainable, on-demand thermal management across diverse applications, including energy-efficient passive houses.