CO 2 switchable adhesion of ionic polydimethylsiloxane elastomers.

We have developed ionic polydimethylsiloxane elastomers that rapidly and reversibly increase their adhesion upon exposure to carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) gas. The CO 2 molecules dissolve quickly into the ionic aggregates, physically crosslinking the polymer chains and plasticizing them. The elastomer consequently becomes softer and more adhesive upon exposure to CO 2 .