Biomimetic adhesives and coatings based on Mussel adhesive Proteins

Nature provides many outstanding examples of adhesive strategies from which chemists and material scientists can draw inspiration in their pursuit of new adhesive materials. Mussels secrete adhesive proteins, which enable these organisms to bind tightly to various surfaces under water. One of the key structure component of mussel adhesive protein (MAP) is the presence of a catecholic amino acid, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA), which plays an important role in the curing and interfacial binding of MAP. The catechol side chain is capable of undergoing various reversible and irreversible interactions with both organic and inorganic substrates. Modification of inert polymer systems with DOPA and other catechol derivatives have imparted these materials with water-resistant adhesive properties and the ability to cure rapidly. This chapter focuses on the various strategies used in developing biomimetic adhesives and coatings, as well as recent developments of self-healing and smart materials that employ MAP chemistry.