Chemists reproduce the rose's 'petal effect'

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Chemists have discovered how the rose is able to hold on to water droplets even when upside down. The finding could lead to new adhesive materials. Credit: public-domain-photos.com
Chemists have discovered how the rose is able to hold on to water droplets even when upside down. The finding could lead to new adhesive materials. Credit: public-domain-photos.com

The lotus flower is nature’s “slip n’ slide,” where water beads skate along each petal’s surface like liquid metal. Now, chemists reveal the ying to the lotus’ frictionless yang: rose petals. Chemists have found the physical basis for the rose’s ability to grip water droplets in place, even when the flower is upside down. In a study scheduled for the April 15 issue of ACS’ Langmuir, a bi-weekly journal, this newly described “petal effect” could lead to unique new adhesive materials, coatings and fabrics.


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