Slip-resistant footwear soles using bio-inspired composites
Official title: Footwear Outsoles with Durable Slip-Resistance Properties Using Novel Bio-Inspired Composite Materials
Funded at George Mason University · NIH-11225301 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A researcher at George Mason University is developing durable, slip-resistant boot soles using novel bio-inspired materials and additive manufacturing to keep workers safer on icy and wet surfaces.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Mason University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fairfax, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $433,227 |
| NIH project number | 1R01OH012812-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11225301 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are workers who frequently operate in snowy, icy, or wet outdoor conditions and could benefit from improved footwear grip.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without exposure to slippery work environments may not directly benefit from these findings.
What this research studies
This project aims to create footwear outsoles with superior grip by combining textured, bio-inspired composites with 3D printing and 2D fillers. The work tests different microfibers and fiber orientations to improve friction on slippery surfaces. It will explore how surface features and material properties affect grip, especially under varying pressures against ice and wet ground. The goal is to outperform current options and provide durable slip resistance for winter conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer footwear for workers in slippery environments, potentially reducing fall injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies show that material texture and fiber orientation can influence friction, but the specific bio-inspired composites and AM approaches are novel in this context.
Where this research is happening
-
George Mason University
Fairfax, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bagheri, Shaghayegh — George Mason University
- Study coordinator: Bagheri, Shaghayegh
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.