Octopus-inspired sticky medical patchThe octopus-inspired AMOS patch. KAUST

Using a fast hybrid 3D-printing method, researchers from KAUST developed a reusable sticky medical patch with small, octopus-like suction cups.

These patches are flexible, skin-friendly, and breathable, designed to monitor vital signs without causing skin damage like traditional adhesive patches, which can lead to irritation, blisters, and tears.

“The patch is designed for easy removal without causing discomfort or pain, unlike conventional glue-based patches,” says Nazek El-Atab, who led the team that developed it. “Our goal is to develop a comprehensive, versatile, skin-attachable device that can revolutionize wearable health monitoring and diagnostic technologies.”

Octopus-inspired sticky medical patchThe AMOS patch was used to adhere EEGs and other sensors to Assoc. KAUST

“Previous bioinspired suction-based adhesives have suffered primarily from limited manufacturing flexibility and versatility due to traditional nano-/microfabrication techniques,” explains Aljawharah A. Alsharif, a Ph.D. student under the supervision of El-Atab.

source KAUST