A team of researchers from Dartmouth College has discovered a class of molecular materials for manufacturing temporary glues and adhesives that can be removed without force.

The research team found that the molecules in the class of adhesive materials, which are solid crystal structures, shift from solid to gas, entirely bypassing a liquid phase. The material, which sticks as a solid, will transform into a vapor when heated in a vacuum environment, thereby releasing without applying mechanical force.

Dartmouth researcher shows off a temporary glue that is strong enough to hold him, but can be released without force. Source: Nicholas Blelloch

According to the Dartmouth team, this is key to the development of temporary adhesives that do not demand mechanical force for removal, such as that demanded of the temporary glues used in bandages, sticky notes and painter's tape, for instance.

The team is eyeing the new adhesive primarily for other applications in semiconductor manufacturing wherein strong holding and quick and easy debonding are required.

The research appears in the journal Chemistry of Materials.