A new “smart” and reusable adhesive: a breakthrough from Japan

An adhesive capable of bonding strongly, detaching without leaving any residue, and then being reused multiple times. This is not science fiction, but the result of research conducted at the University of Osaka in Japan, opening new perspectives for industry and material recycling.

The team, led by researcher Saori Obayashi, has developed an innovative polymer-based adhesive using a reversible chemical mechanism. Unlike traditional glues, designed to create permanent bonds, this new material can “stick” and “unstick” on demand while maintaining its performance over time.

Conventional adhesives are extremely effective, but they have a limitation: once used, they are difficult to remove without damaging surfaces. This represents an obstacle both for product repair and for recycling. The new technology aims precisely to overcome this issue. The key lies in so-called “reversible bonds,” chemical connections that can break and reform under certain conditions.

At the core of the system is a mechanism known as a “host–guest complex.” In simple terms, a larger molecule (the “host”) contains a cavity into which a smaller molecule (the “guest”) can fit, much like a key in a lock. This bond is not permanent: it can be activated or deactivated.

The challenge until now was making this system work in polymers, materials whose molecules are large and relatively immobile. The researchers solved this issue by adjusting the glass transition temperature, the point at which polymer chains become more flexible and able to move freely. By tuning this temperature, the team enabled molecules to interact more easily, allowing reversible bonds to form.

Thanks to this approach, the adhesive can be precisely controlled: by changing the temperature or introducing specific chemical substances, it can be made to stick or detach on demand. To observe the process in detail, the researchers used advanced neutron scattering techniques, which made it possible to analyze molecular behaviour during adhesion and detachment.

Impact on industry and the environment

The potential applications are numerous: from electronics manufacturing to precision engineering. A reusable adhesive could reduce costs, improve process efficiency, and simplify maintenance operations.

Moreover, the ability to easily separate bonded materials also represents a major environmental advantage, facilitating recycling and helping to reduce waste.

The research, published in the scientific journal Advanced Materials, marks a step forward toward more sustainable and intelligent materials capable of adapting to the needs of modern industry.

For industry professionals, the appointment is ABS Europe 2026-Adhesives Bonding & Sealants, the first event in Italy and the Mediterranean area dedicated to adhesives, glues, sealants, foams, tapes, resins, coatings, laminates, and films, taking place from 27 to 29 October 2026 at Fiera di Vicenza.

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