Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Universal solvent no match for new self-healing sticky gel

Scientists have developed a synthetic version of the self-healing sticky substance used by mussels to anchor themselves to rocks. The new material exhibits both strength and reversibility through metal bonds, allowing it to repair tears within minutes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 27, 2011
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Tofu ingredient yields formaldehyde-free glue for plywood

Researchers have created a new soy-based glue that can replace traditional wood adhesives, eliminating the release of formaldehyde vapors. The adhesive, made from soy flour and a special additive, performs as well as conventional adhesives but is environmentally friendly.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateSep 29, 2010

Purdue researcher cracks open secret of oysters' ability to stick together

A Purdue University-led research team has uncovered the chemical components of oyster adhesive, which could aid in boosting dwindling oyster populations and creating non-toxic materials to prevent marine fouling. The findings also have implications for dentistry and construction.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 20, 2010

Secrets of the gecko foot help robot climb

A Stanford mechanical engineer created a robot that can climb smooth surfaces like glass using the sticky property of a gecko's foot. The robot uses a material with tiny hairs to create directional adhesion, allowing it to stick and unstick from surfaces easily.

SourceStanford University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 26, 2010
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Cement, the glue that holds oyster families together

Researchers at Purdue University and the University of South Carolina have discovered a unique adhesive material in oysters that differs from other marine organisms. The cement, composed largely of chalky calcium carbonate, plays a crucial role in forming massive reef complexes.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 25, 2010

Glue, fly, glue

Researchers discovered that caddisfly larvae's underwater silk adhesive is sticky and has potential to be used as a medical bioadhesive in surgery. The silk, known as 'rock rollers,' may be useful for sticking wet tissues together, similar to using a wet Band-Aid.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateFeb 28, 2010

New adhesive device could let humans walk on walls

A Cornell University team invented a palm-sized device that uses water surface tension as an adhesive bond, allowing it to stick and unstick to surfaces. The device has potential applications in shoes, gloves, and Post-it-like notes.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2010
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Spider web glue spins society toward new biobased adhesives

Researchers have identified two new glycoproteins in spider web glue that can be used to develop a new generation of biobased adhesives. These proteins are produced from opposite strands of the same DNA sequence, making them a promising material for large-scale production and various applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateDec 22, 2009

Sucker-footed bats don't use suction after all

Researchers discovered that sucker-footed bats of Madagascar use wet adhesion to attach themselves to surfaces, ruling out suction as the primary method. The finding helps scientists understand how these small creatures live in the wild and sheds light on the evolutionary relationship between two similar bat species.

SourceBrown University·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateDec 14, 2009

Common plants can eliminate indoor air pollutants

Researchers have identified five common indoor plants that can effectively remove harmful VOCs from the air, reducing stress and symptoms of ill health. These plants, including purple waffle plant, English ivy, and Asparagus fern, have been shown to improve air quality and overall well-being.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateNov 4, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Spider web glue spins society toward new biobased adhesives

Researchers have identified two new glycoproteins in spider web glue, which can be produced through opposite strands of the same DNA sequence. This discovery paves the way for large-scale production of biobased glues for various applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateOct 21, 2009

Nanotechnology may increase longevity of dental fillings

Researchers develop nanotechnology process to prevent bonding failure in composite resin fillings. By feeding minerals back into the collagen network, they aim to create a delivery system that can repair cavities on their own.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJul 1, 2009
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Discovered after 40 years: Moon dust hazard influenced by Sun's elevation

A new study analyzes interactions on the Moon among electrostatic adhesive forces, sun's rays angle and lunar gravity to conclude stickiness changes with sun elevation. Forces compelling dust to cling to surfaces weaken as sun moves higher in sky, allowing lunar gravity to pull off.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 17, 2009

Shellfish and inkjet printers may hold key to faster healing from surgeries

Researchers have developed new medical adhesives using marine mussel glue and inkjet technology that are non-toxic, biodegradable and precise, promising improved wound repair and reduced scarring in surgeries. The adhesives could replace traditional sutures, reducing complications and improving patient outcomes.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Materials Research Part B Applied Biomaterials·DateMar 18, 2009

Researchers control the assembly of nanobristles into helical clusters

Scientists at Harvard University have discovered a way to synthesize and control the formation of nanobristles into helical clusters. The finding has potential use in energy, information storage, photonics, adhesion, capture and release systems, as well as particle mixing and transport.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateJan 8, 2009

Gaps in adhesion

Scientists have reproduced the protein responsible for mussel adhesion in a synthetic material, showing that adhesion is independent of link number. The findings could lead to manufacturing polymers with binding sites for different materials.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 17, 2008
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

New gecko-like adhesive shakes off dirt

The new adhesive sheds dirt particles with each use, unlike traditional sticky tapes that attract dust. After 30 simulated steps, the adhesive recovered one-third of its original adhesion strength, showing promise for future robot development.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalLangmuir·DateSep 10, 2008

Nothing stops an expert in the art of living

Researchers Dagmar Voigt and Stanislav Gorb from the Max-Planck Institute for Metals Research discovered that mirid bugs' non-stick surface disrupts the adhesive properties of Roridula gorgonias' glue. The team found that the mirid bug's greasy coating prevents the glue from adhering to its surface, allowing it to evade capture.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateAug 14, 2008
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

How nonstick bugs evade natural fly paper

A team of scientists discovered that mirid bugs possess a 30 times thicker coating than blowflies, which disrupts the glue's adhesive powers, allowing them to escape. The unique greasy layer prevents the glue from forming discrete blobs, instead running like a fluid over the surface.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·DateAug 8, 2008

Team explains 'the wallpaper problem'

A team of researchers from MIT and CNRS studied the phenomenon of triangular tears in adhesives like tape and plastic sheets. They found that these tears arise from interactions between three properties: elasticity, adhesive energy, and fracture energy. The study has potential industrial applications in microtechnologies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 30, 2008

MIT creates gecko-inspired bandage

Researchers at MIT have created a waterproof adhesive bandage inspired by geckos, which may soon be used to patch up surgical wounds or internal injuries. The bandage has a unique nanoscale landscape that allows it to stick in wet environments and is biodegradable.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2008

New adhesive mimics gecko toe hairs

Researchers developed a new synthetic adhesive that mimics gecko toe hairs, allowing for directional adhesion on smooth surfaces. The adhesive is made from hard plastic microfibers that become stronger with use and can detach without residue.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJan 30, 2008

The pitter patter of little feet ... climbing straight up a wall

Researchers at UC Berkeley developed an adhesive that masters the gecko's grip-and-release trait, with a strong hold that gets stronger with use. The material uses tiny plastic fibers to establish traction, making it suitable for climbing equipment and medical devices.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateJan 29, 2008
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Sticky questions tackled in gecko research

A University of Calgary biologist has made a groundbreaking discovery about geckos' ability to stick to surfaces using their unique toe pads. By studying the microscopic level of setae structures on gecko feet, researchers found that friction plays a crucial role in geckos' adhesion system.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCanadian Journal of Zoology·DateDec 20, 2007

How adhesive protein causes malaria

The study identified specific parts of PfEMP1 that are likely to bond more strongly with receptors in blood vessels, producing a stronger adhesive effect. These protein parts are common in parasites causing severe malaria, and their identification could lead to the development of a vaccine to prevent the disease.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 25, 2007

Nature's secrets yield new adhesive material

Researchers have designed a hybrid material that combines the dry adhesive properties of geckos with the underwater adhesive properties of mussels, producing a synthetic material that adheres well under both wet and dry conditions. The geckel nanoadhesive showed improved adherence compared to previous gecko-based synthetic adhesives.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 2007
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Synthetic adhesive mimics sticking powers of gecko and mussel

Researchers have developed a synthetic adhesive, called 'geckel,' that exhibits strong yet reversible adhesion in both air and water. The material combines the adhesive properties of geckos with those of mussels, showing improved wet adhesion 15-fold over uncoated pillar arrays.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 2007

Nanotube adhesive sticks better than a gecko's foot

Scientists developed a flexible patch that can stick and unstick repeatedly like a gecko foot, featuring carbon nanotube hairs for improved properties. The material has potential applications in robotics, electronic devices, and outer space.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 18, 2007

Inexpensive 'nanoglue' can bond nearly anything together

Researchers have developed a new method to create an adhesive that can withstand extremely high temperatures, with bonds growing stronger when heated. The 'nanoglue' has potential applications in computer chip manufacturing, energy production, and other industries where traditional adhesives fail.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 16, 2007

Automated system installs pavement markers

A new automated system installs raised pavement markers (RPMs) along lane stripes while in motion, reducing risk to workers and drivers. The system is less labor-intensive, faster, and safer than manual placement, using less fuel and causing less wear on equipment.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateJan 10, 2007
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Beetle feet stick to their promises

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Metals Research develop adhesive material mimicking beetle feet's microhairs for improved adhesion. The material exhibits excellent performance, lasting hundreds of applications and showing benefits such as no visible marks or need for cleaning.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateNov 3, 2006

Floating and spiky

Researchers use computer simulations to study the effect of adhesive patch size and density on cell adhesion. They found that protrusion height is the most critical factor, with small increases leading to faster adhesion rates.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 3, 2006

New wood-plastic composites to boost industry, help use waste products

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed stronger and less expensive wood-plastic composites that can use inexpensive plastics found in old carpet fibers. These new products have the potential to capture 20% of the decking market by 2010, reducing waste disposal concerns.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Applied Polymer Science·DateOct 2, 2006

Study reveals details of mussels' tenacious bonds

A Northwestern University team sheds light on mussel adhesive strategies, focusing on the amino acid DOPA, which forms strong noncovalent and covalent interactions with surfaces. This discovery could lead to development of medical implant coatings.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2006

Nature's strongest glue could be used as a medical adhesive

Researchers found that a single bacterial cell can withstand stress equivalent to five tons per square inch due to its adhesive properties. Hypothetically, the glue could be mass-produced for use in surgical adhesives, presenting a promising biodegradable alternative.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 10, 2006
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Anti-adhesive layers leave no hope for insects

Researchers from Max Planck Institute for Metals Research and University of Hohenheim investigate the effect of two-layered crystalline wax on insect attachment. The upper layer contaminates insects' feet, while the lower layer reduces contact area between feet and substrate, resulting in slippery zone that traps insects.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJan 13, 2006

Hairy feet stick better to wet ceilings

Geckos' hairy feet exhibit an extreme adhesive ability due to a 'dry' system that uses water. The researchers found that increased air humidity strengthens the capillary forces between spatulae and substrates, enabling geckos to stick better on wet ceilings.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 9, 2005

Beetle-inspired switch uses water for bonding

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a beetle-inspired switch that uses surface tension to create bonds, opening up possibilities for powerful adhesive bonding in arrays. The switch can be scaled down to the size of a micron and operates using water and electricity.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 22, 2005
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Nature provides inspiration for important new adhesive

A new adhesive inspired by mussel protein has been developed, offering superior strength and water resistance. The adhesive is made from natural resources such as soy flour and lignin and does not use formaldehyde or other toxic chemicals.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Adhesion Science and Technology·DateApr 11, 2005

Molecular wires & corrosion control boost performance of conductive adhesives

Conductive adhesives offer an alternative to tin-lead solder, but overcoming low current density and corrosion challenges remained. Researchers at Georgia Tech used self-assembled monolayers and a three-part anti-corrosion strategy to increase current density, paving the way for high-performance conductive adhesives.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·DateMar 13, 2005

Identifying the path to infection

Researchers have identified a new protein structure in E. coli that helps understand how the bacteria attach to human kidney cells and secrete an adhesive protein. The discovery could lead to new treatments for urinary tract infections and other related diseases.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Molecular Biology·DateNov 9, 2004
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Measurement clarifies role between protein structure and cell adhesion

A team of researchers has developed a new technique to directly measure protein binding forces, clarifying the role of membrane-anchored protein NCAM in cell adhesion. Their study reveals that NCAM forms two adhesive configurations, which are validated by experimental results and contribute to spatially distinct bonds.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2004

Purdue chemist 'mussels' in on secrets of natural adhesives

Purdue University scientists have discovered that mussels use iron to create their natural adhesive, which could have applications in medicine and industry. The discovery, led by Jonathan Wilker, has the potential to develop new surgical adhesives, rustproof coatings and antifouling paints.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJan 12, 2004

Watching social behaviour evolve

Myxococcus xanthus bacteria evolved the ability to swarm socially on soft agar without filamentous appendages (pili), relying on an enhanced adhesive matrix composed of fibrils. This cooperative behavior depends on individual cells contributing to a public commons, enabling efficient swarming and cooperation.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateSep 5, 2003
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Penn State chemist wins national award for milestone in research

Allara and Nuzzo developed a model that allows researchers to study how molecules arrange themselves on surfaces, packing tightly and responding to their environment. This discovery has been used to advance various fields, including the development of artificial hearts, lubricated surfaces, and complex plastics.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 4, 2003

Scientists prove how geckos stick, unlock secrets to making artificial gecko glue

A team of biologists and engineers has discovered that the gecko's adhesive power depends on weak van der Waals forces and geometry, not surface chemistry. They fabricated prototype synthetic foot-hair tips that stick like real geckos' feet, opening doors to manufacturing biologically inspired adhesives with widespread applications.

SourceLewis & Clark College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 26, 2002

Wood adhesive is good, but could be better

Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing a more reliable and durable wood adhesive, polymeric isocyanate, to enhance the strength and stiffness of wood composites. The new adhesive reduces undesirable swelling caused by moisture and eliminates formaldehyde emissions.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateApr 8, 2002
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Controlling chain end structure a stepping stone to new polymers

Virginia Tech researchers are attaching DNA base pairs to polymer chain ends to create new materials with improved association, leading to stronger and reversible adhesives. The study explores how base pairs influence polymer structure, properties, and flow, paving the way for unique structures and applications.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateApr 8, 2002

Adhesive science can help optimize use of timber resources

Researchers study composite materials made from small trees, finding they can be as strong or even stronger than solid wood due to uniform properties and improved durability. The team investigates molecular adhesion and chemistry under simulated conditions to enhance durability.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateMar 20, 2002