Biodegradable uv-curable polyester adhesives for wet and underwater surfaces
A novel platform of solvent-free, biodegradable polyester adhesives that cure under UV light and bond strongly to wet or underwater surfaces. Designed for environmentally benign application, these adhesives offer high adhesive and cohesive strength without thermal sensitivity, making them suitable for marine, medical, and industrial uses.
Overview
This solution is a family of biodegradable polyester adhesives engineered to bond effectively to wet or underwater surfaces without the need for solvents or diluents. The adhesives cure through UV-triggered crosslinking, which means curing performance is independent of the thermal environment. The chemistry is intentionally designed to balance adhesive and cohesive strength while remaining environmentally benign, addressing long-standing challenges in adhesion to damp substrates where conventional adhesives typically fail.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Solvent-free application: The polymer's chemistry lowers the material modulus, enabling direct application without solvents or diluents
- UV-triggered crosslinking: Curing is initiated by UV light rather than heat, providing consistent performance across varying thermal conditions
- Wet and underwater bonding: Functional chemical groups promote adhesion on hydrated surfaces, expanding the range of usable substrates
- Balanced strength profile: Separate chemical motifs enhance adhesive strength at the interface and cohesive strength within the cured material
- Biodegradable polyester backbone: Built around environmentally benign polymers that support sustainability goals
Technology readiness level
The adhesive platform has been demonstrated in published work supported by supplementary videos, indicating laboratory-validated performance of the core chemistry. The technology is patent protected. The research team is prepared to collaborate with sponsors to tailor formulations for specific applications, with opportunities to secure joint intellectual property for further development. This positions the platform at a stage ready for sponsored customization, co-development, and pilot engagements with industrial partners.
About The University of Akron
The University of Akron is a mid-sized public research university in Akron, Ohio, known for an applied, industry-facing culture grounded in materials and manufacturing. Industry engagement centers on polymer and materials facilities with shared instrumentation, pilot-scale processing, and analytical testing accessible to corporate collaborators. An established engineering co-op program and proximity to Northeast Ohio’s tire and polymers cluster provide steady talent pipelines and avenues for joint problem‑solving. Faculty secure competitive federal funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy, supplemented by state and industry support. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP strategy, licensing, and startup formation.
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