Dynamic capture enabled by sequential phase-switching adhesion

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Abstract
Controllable adhesive interfaces offer unique opportunities for dynamic object capture, especially for aerospace engineering. However, existing approaches often lack the capability to efficiently dissipate impact energy and rapidly protect the adhesive interface during rebound and typically rely on complex mechanical and control systems to fulfill multiple functions. Here, we present a sequential phase-switching adhesion strategy using shape memory polymers (SMPs) to facilitate full-cycle capture operations. The engineered SMP-frame adhesive structure captures targets with normalized kinetic energies exceeding 3800 joules per square meter, empowered by the intrinsic viscoelasticity of the material to provide both strong energy dissipation and rapid adhesive interface strengthening. The dynamic strengthening mechanism delays crack propagation and greatly enhances detachment toughness, enabling unprecedented rebound suppression within the short timescales of collision. The adhesive-integrated system successfully performs dynamic capture, manipulation, and release under free-floating conditions, demonstrating the effectiveness of the sequential phase-switching adhesion strategy. The proposed concept and design offer a paradigm for robust, multifunctional capture in high-dynamics environments.

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