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The glue's adhesion is stronger in saltwater versus deionized water, making the polymer a viable marine adhesive.
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Track Code: 2016-WILK-67559 Tags adhesives, Chemistry and Chemical Analysis, polymers, Waterproof, Materials and Manufacturing Background Shellfish are the natural experts of underwater adhesion. Organisms like mussels, barnacles, and oysters attach to underwater rocks with ease, yet man-made adhesives struggle significantly in wet environments. When submerged, glue interacts with water molecules prior to attaching to a surface. These interactions reduce the strength of the adhesive. However, the common blue mussel attaches itself via a mixture of atypical proteins cross-linked into an adhesive. By understanding this biological phenomenon, a similar, more effective product can be produced. Technology Summary Shellfish are the natural experts of underwater adhesion. Organisms like mussels, barnacles, and oysters attach to underwater rocks with ease, yet man-made adhesives struggle significantly in wet environments. When submerged, glue interacts with water molecules prior to attaching to a surface. These interactions reduce the strength of the adhesive. However, the common blue mussel attaches itself via a mixture of atypical proteins cross-linked into an adhesive. By understanding this biological phenomenon, a similar, more effective product can be produced. A Purdue University researcher has developed a polymer mimic of mussel adhesives with exceptional underwater bonding characteristics. The researchers examined adhesive strength of a catechol-polystyrene polymer as a function of polymer molecular weight and composition, resulting in a polymer composition that proves to be the strongest underwater adhesive compared to commercial marine glues. The glue's adhesion is stronger in saltwater versus deionized water, making the polymer a viable marine adhesive. Advantages Stronger than natural mussel adhesive Stronger than commercial marine adhesives Stronger in saltwater Potential Applications Underwater adhesive Construction and repair in marine and wet environments Stage of Development Prototype testing