Novel biomimetic adhesives based on algae glue.

Inspired by the remarkable adhesive capabilities to wet surfaces of the secretes of the brown alga Fucus serratus, novel glues have been designed and characterized. Formulations composed of phloroglucinol, alginate, and calcium ions are capable of adhering to a variety of surfaces. Rheological data show that the presence of phloroglucinol lowers the amount of Ca(2+) ions required for sol-gel transition, which indicates interactions between the alginate and the phloroglucinol. SAXS data support this claim. The phloroglucinol adhesive binds porcine tissues together with an adhesive strength of 17-25 kPa, which indicates appropriate mechanical properties for application as a soft tissue adhesive.