Mussel-Inspired Adhesives and Coatings.

TitleMussel-Inspired Adhesives and Coatings.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsLee, BP, Messersmith, PB, Israelachvili, JN, Waite, JH
JournalAnnu Rev Mater Res
Volume41
Pagination99-132
Date Published2011 Aug 1
ISSN1531-7331
Abstract

Mussels attach to solid surfaces in the sea. Their adhesion must be rapid, strong, and tough, or else they will be dislodged and dashed to pieces by the next incoming wave. Given the dearth of synthetic adhesives for wet polar surfaces, much effort has been directed to characterizing and mimicking essential features of the adhesive chemistry practiced by mussels. Studies of these organisms have uncovered important adaptive strategies that help to circumvent the high dielectric and solvation properties of water that typically frustrate adhesion. In a chemical vein, the adhesive proteins of mussels are heavily decorated with Dopa, a catecholic functionality. Various synthetic polymers have been functionalized with catechols to provide diverse adhesive, sealant, coating, and anchoring properties, particularly for critical biomedical applications.

DOI10.1146/annurev-matsci-062910-100429
Alternate JournalAnnu Rev Mater Res
PubMed ID22058660
PubMed Central IDPMC3207216
Grant ListR01 DE018468 / DE / NIDCR NIH HHS / United States
R01 DE018468-01A1 / DE / NIDCR NIH HHS / United States
R01 DE018468-02 / DE / NIDCR NIH HHS / United States
R01 DE018468-03 / DE / NIDCR NIH HHS / United States
R01 DE018468-04 / DE / NIDCR NIH HHS / United States
R01 DE018468-05 / DE / NIDCR NIH HHS / United States