Sandcastle Worms Inspire Underwater Adhesive

Feb-03-16 A new underwater adhesive inspired by the secretions of the sandcastle worms could have applications from engineering to tissue repair.

Sandcastle worms build underwater structures of sand held together by a protein adhesive. Taking a cue from the worms, researchers at UC Santa Barbara have created a synthetic glue that mimics the microscopic porous structures of the worm’s adhesive. These porous structures allow the glue to bond quickly and tightly to an array of materials while underwater, while also being more resistant to cracking.

As an added bonus, the glue does not require pre-immersive dry curing or compressing pressure like previous glues, which streamlines the adhesion process.

Image Credit: Fred Hayes

More Info about this Invention:

[UCSB.EDU]
[NATURE.COM]

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