Successfully built adhesives in the water

Chinese experts have recently found a way to make a sticky adhesive in the water.

Scientists from the Shanghai University of Science and Technology have recently created a new biocompatible adhesive that can bind even in water, boat repair.

This research comes from the idea of observing animals such as clams, oysters ... living on the seafloor. Scientists have found that these species secrete natural proteins that help them adhere very well to the rock surface or to the bottom of the ship.

Chao Zong, head of research and associates, sought to combine the protein with other biological materials to form a new type of glue.

The initial experiment was not successful when experts used E. coli in combination. However, things have changed in the next experiment.

Specifically, Chao Zong and his colleagues combined a protein called curli to form a protein protein. These fiber proteins intertwine, creating a large and complex mesh, with very good strength.

Although the structure is not very excellent, but this material shows the flexibility, tight binding in the event of a surface that is dry or wet.

"This work is extremely inventive and thorough, and they can help us create a unique glue," said Herbert Waite, a professor of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of California , Berkeley. can be attached in many different environments ".

From here, experts hope to further develop this type of glue that has improved adhesion and durability. The research team expects to be able to produce "live adhesives" in the future to self-assess the damage of the surface and then repair it by producing a special adhesive, self-healing. cracked.

The research is published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology.

The title has been changed.