Michele Scaraggi

University of Salento, Innovation Engineering (Italy)

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Michele Scaraggi is a leading figure in contact mechanics and bio-inspired surface engineering, whose work bridges fundamental physics with real-world applications. His research centers on understanding and controlling adhesion and friction under extreme conditions—where conventional van der Waals forces fail, or where dust and moisture compromise performance. Scaraggi’s major contributions include the development of bio-inspired interlocking micro-patterning, a breakthrough that enables tunable, switchable, and selective adhesion in wet and dusty environments. This innovation has profound implications for surgical sutures, wound-healing tapes, underwater adhesives, robotic grippers, and even space grasping. His recent study on contact area shrinkage in wavy frictional sliding contacts challenges classical linear models, revealing how material and geometric nonlinearity can drastically alter contact predictions. With over 7 citations for his 2025 work alone, Scaraggi’s impact is rapidly growing. His ability to merge rigorous mechanics with nature-inspired design makes his research essential for students and engineers seeking to develop next-generation adaptive surfaces and smart adhesives.