Bioadhesives

Bioadhesives are substances derived from biological sources that are used to bond materials together. These materials can be natural or synthetic, and the bioadhesives can be used in a wide range of applications. The development of bioadhesives is driven by a desire for more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional synthetic adhesives, which often rely on petrochemicals and can be difficult to degrade.

Many natural organisms produce their own adhesives for various purposes, such as in the animal kingdom for attachment, defense, or reproduction, and in the plant kingdom for seed dispersal or wound sealing. Researchers study these natural systems to understand the mechanisms behind their adhesive properties and to develop bio-inspired synthetic mimics. Common sources for bioadhesives include proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids. For example, mussel adhesive proteins are well-known for their remarkable ability to adhere to surfaces in wet environments, inspiring the creation of synthetic bioadhesives with similar properties. Other sources include spider silk, bacterial polysaccharides, and plant-based resins.

The applications for bioadhesives are diverse and expanding. In medicine, they are being developed for use as surgical glues, wound dressings, and drug delivery systems, offering potential advantages in biocompatibility and reduced tissue damage. In industry, bioadhesives are finding use in packaging, textiles, and construction as greener alternatives to conventional glues. Research continues to focus on improving the strength, durability, and specific properties of bioadhesives to meet the demands of various sectors.