Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research have found a new method for adhesion by learning from shellfish. Shellfish must have a very strong bond. An example of this would be mussels attached to a pier piling. The waves crash against them, but they remain attached. What is especially amazing about this “glue” is that it stands up even under water. The shellfish use the amino acid dihydroxyphenylalanine to form a strong bond to things like metals and minerals. The scientists have reproduced this using artificial polymers.
This advancement in chemistry is important because in the future it can be used as a glue to secure things tightly, especially under water. New adhesive methods are always welcome in our society. This study can also further biochemistry studies- seeing chemistry at work in everyday life. Perhaps this adancement can become the next velcro.
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Scientists Learn From Shellfish to Make New “Glue”
November 21st, 2008 by faustlg · 1 Comment · Chemistry
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A single polymer will not do the job required. You need numerous polymers in order for it to work as well as the shellfish do. Soon they will be able to make it very strong which is very helpful.
This new “glue” will help out companies that want to houses together and keep pipes together underwater. Sprinkler systems could use this glue and not have to worry about coming apart. There can be a downside of course. There are pranksters who would love this “glue”. I hope that is a way in getting the stuff off in a simple fashion without damaging anything. It’s amazing that we can be so accurate in studying and creating things.