Microstructure-Inspired Tough Adhesion via Self-Organized Polyurethane Interfaces

This preprint presents a microstructure-inspired design of hyperbranched polyurethane interfaces that achieve strong and tough adhesion through self-organized microphase structures. The self-assembled architecture enables energy dissipation and crack deflection under mechanical load, leading to ultrahigh interfacial toughness exceeding several kJ m⁻². The tough interface maintains elasticity and adhesion under repeated deformation, making it promising for use in wearable electronics and soft robotic components. The study elucidates how nanoscale organization of soft–hard domains governs macroscopic adhesion performance, offering a design paradigm for multifunctional, damage-tolerant polymer interfaces.