Catechol-Containing Adhesives (IMAGE)

Michigan Technological University

Catechol-Containing Adhesives

Caption

Turning adhesion on and off is what makes a glue smart. It's one thing to do this in the open air and quite another under water. Inspired by nature, catechols are synthetic compounds that mimic the wet-but-still-sticky proteins secreted by mussels and offer promise for smart adhesives that work in water. The technology could help with underwater glue, wound dressings, prosthetic attachments or even making car parts and in other manufacturing.

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Nicole Kelly, Sarah Bird/Michigan Tech

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