Scientists managed to reproduce the key characteristics of the glue of shells and mussels - protein threads, chemical
“The composite we created not only performs better underwater than most adhesives available today. Very little is needed, ”the scientists note.
Mussels secrete byssus.These are the strong protein strands that some bivalve molluscs produce. The protein material secreted by the byssus gland has a liquid form when it is excreted and hardens, having already entered the water. The tensile strength of such threads in most species of mollusks is in the range of 13-26 MPa (133-266 kgf / cm²). Such precipitates form polymers that are embedded in surfaces and chemically crosslinked to enhance bonding. Mussels also secrete iron complexes that enhance the cohesive force of the byssus.
The scientists reproduced these characteristics in a new material made from the protein silk fibroin, extracted from the cocoon of the silkworm. Biologists also added polydopamine and iron to the new glue.
“As a result, we got a glue that, even under a microscope, looks like its natural counterpart,” the scientists note.
Obtaining the correct silk fibroin mixture,polydopamine and acidic ferric ion curing conditions were critical for the adhesive to set and perform underwater, achieving a strength of 2.4 MPa (24 kgf/cm²) while resisting shear forces. This is better than most existing experimental and commercial adhesives and only slightly lower than the strongest underwater adhesive at 2.8 MPa. However, the advantage of this new product is that it is non-toxic, consists of all-natural materials and requires only 1-2 mg per square centimeter to achieve this adhesion - that's just a few drops.
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kgf / cm² - kilogram of force per square centimeter
MPa - megapascal
Cohesion is a bond between identical molecules (atoms, ions) inside a body within the same phase. Cohesion characterizes the strength of a body and its ability to withstand external influences.