A new underwater glue, inspired by the natural bonding mechanism of mussels, has shown promise in enhancing operational capabilities for the UK Armed Forces following successful evaluations in Portsmouth.
The development of this rapid repair solution is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and biotechnology company Zentraxa.
This glue allows for quick and effective repairs of equipment such as wetsuits and inflatable boats, even under harsh conditions, which could be crucial in life-threatening situations, said the MoD.
Additionally, its application extends to underwater structural repairs, such as bridge maintenance below the waterline, offering potential cost savings by allowing in-situ fixes during military operations.
UK Defence Procurement and Industry Minister Maria Eagle said: “This unique approach, inspired by nature, demonstrates how the UK is becoming a hotbed for pioneering defence technology.
“Our scientists are working with industry to unlock emerging technologies, finding new ways to protect the military personnel who keep our nation safe, at home and abroad.
“That’s why we’re establishing UK Defence Innovation with a ring-fenced budget of £400m, to help deliver even more cutting-edge tools like this to the Armed Forces.”
During testing, British Army divers at Horsea Island tested the glue's effectiveness, applying it to various objects on an underwater steel wall.
The product also showed promising results in laboratory settings, where it was tested in simulated seawater and on wet surfaces above water.
Dstl engineering biology project principal scientist Claire said: “Taking something that nature does well and applying it to modern problems is what is engineering biology is all about.
“The glue – inspired by nature – will give our Armed Forces a capability that they simply don’t have at the moment.
“This will bring a new and unique capability to underwater work. It could help divers, it could mean a punctured dinghy doesn’t sink. It could ultimately save lives.”
Dstl has backed the initiative with a funding of around £300,000. It plans to work alongside various defence sectors to advance the glue technology.
This collaboration is anticipated to bolster specialist employment opportunities and underscores the significant role of public-private partnerships in driving innovation, which is a fundamental component of the government's agenda for transformation.
Zentraxa chief technology officer Martin Challand said: “We have taken inspiration from natural organisms that can stick underwater like the marine mussel and then tried to exploit that bio-chemistry into a real world setting.
“This is a major milestone for our product – this what we have dreamed of. It is extremely rewarding to see it being used and knowing that in the future it could save lives and it is fantastic to be working together across sectors like this.
“If you were in a dingy and you suffered some damage you wouldn’t have to get back to shore to fix that. A quick fix in field could enable you to stay deployed or get back safely. This could have a life-saving impact.”
