Kansas State University Gets Patent for New Adhesive that Can be Used in Space Missions
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a patented adhesive that could prove useful in low-moisture environments such as outer space.
Astronauts can use the adhesive re-fix the tiles in space shuttle. The patent, titled "pH dependent adhesive peptides," was provided to the Kansas State University Research Foundation, a not for profit firm that manages the technology transfer processes of Kansas State.
The patented adhesive is prepared from peptides that contain two or more amino acids that connect together. The peptides get increased strength with the removal of moisture. The adhesive developed by the researchers had nanoscale filaments that were twisted together to form a Velcro like shape with little hooks. Unlike most of the commercial adhesives that are chemical type, the new adhesive has a mechanical shape.
The K-state adhesive, unlike other adhesives that become fragile with decreased moisture level, grows stronger. This unique property makes it ideal for use in space missions. The unusual property of the adhesive also makes it suitable for using as a moisture detection device. It can trigger an alarm by breaking the circuit when the moisture level goes below certain level.
Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:
APA
Chai, Cameron. (2019, February 09). Kansas State University Gets Patent for New Adhesive that Can be Used in Space Missions. AZoM. Retrieved on February 12, 2026 from https://www.azom.com/news.aspx?newsID=28568.
MLA
Chai, Cameron. "Kansas State University Gets Patent for New Adhesive that Can be Used in Space Missions". AZoM. 12 February 2026. <https://www.azom.com/news.aspx?newsID=28568>.
Chicago
Chai, Cameron. "Kansas State University Gets Patent for New Adhesive that Can be Used in Space Missions". AZoM. https://www.azom.com/news.aspx?newsID=28568. (accessed February 12, 2026).
Harvard
Chai, Cameron. 2019. Kansas State University Gets Patent for New Adhesive that Can be Used in Space Missions. AZoM, viewed 12 February 2026, https://www.azom.com/news.aspx?newsID=28568.
We're committed to providing free access to quality science. By registering and providing insight into
your preferences you're joining a community of over 1m science interested individuals and help us to
provide you with insightful content whilst keeping our service free.
or
Terms
While we only use edited and approved content for Azthena
answers, it may on occasions provide incorrect responses.
Please confirm any data provided with the related suppliers or
authors. We do not provide medical advice, if you search for
medical information you must always consult a medical
professional before acting on any information provided.
Your questions, but not your email details will be shared with
OpenAI and retained for 30 days in accordance with their
privacy principles.
Please do not ask questions that use sensitive or confidential
information.
Read the full Terms & Conditions.