The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Here, we introduce switchable soft photonic bio-adhesives that enable real-time colorimetric visualization of reversible adhesion through a humidity-responsive bio-photonic matrix incorporating a dynamic hydrogen-bonding network. Synergistic material sequencing generates switchable structural coloration that is directly and reversibly coupled to both adhesion and mechanical strength. These responsive soft photonic materials, featuring a robust physically hydrogen-bonded chiral nematic architecture, dynamically modulate their adhesive and mechanical properties via humidity-induced transitions between cohesive and interfacial failure modes. Demonstrated applications include smart wound dressings with visual feedback for healing progression and simple colorimetric sensors for detecting contamination in respiratory masks.