Project Z-Man: Scale Walls like Spider-Man

Researchers at Stanford University have created a material similar to rubber which replicates the method geckos use to climb.

The Stanford scientists have already successfully tested the material on a robot they adorably named Stickybot and are now working on a way to reinforce the material’s strength to support human weight.

As explained:

Geckos’ ability to defy gravity is due to microscopic hairs on their toes, increasing the surface area, which creates a “one-way adhesive”. A sticky bond is created with each step but that bond can be broken by movement in the other direction.

Basically, if Stanford scientists have any say on the matter, Spider-Man is going to become a little less special. He can still sling webs, though. That’s something.

(Unexplained Science via Telegraph.co.uk)