Gel-Based Glue Fastens Snails To Wet Surfaces, Model For Surgical Adhesive
Wednesday, May 6, 2009 - 20:21
in Biology & Nature
A species of slug produces a defensive gel it can chemically convert into a remarkably strong glue. Similar gel-based glues attach some snails firmly onto slippery rocks; tools are needed to pry them off. The tenacity of these glues on wet surfaces is difficult to match with artificial adhesives.