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.
Source: http://www.k-state.edu/