In the midst of World War II, Dr. Harry Coover was working on a project to create clear plastic gun sights for Allied soldiers. Little did he know, his efforts would lead to an accidental discovery that would revolutionize adhesives forever: cyanoacrylate, commonly known as Super Glue.
The Initial Discovery
In 1942, Coover was a research chemist at Eastman Kodak, tasked with developing optically clear plastics for military use. During one of his experiments, he stumbled upon a compound that was incredibly sticky but unsuitable for his intended purpose. This early version of cyanoacrylate was too adhesive to be practical for gun sights, and Coover initially set it aside, unaware of its future potential.
Rediscovery and Commercialization
It wasn’t until 1951, nearly a decade later, that Coover rediscovered the adhesive while working on heat-resistant polymers for jet canopies. This time, he recognized its unique properties and saw an opportunity to market it as a fast-acting adhesive. With the help of Fred Joyner, who tested the adhesive by bonding two refractor prisms together, Coover realized the commercial potential of his discovery.
In 1958, Super Glue was officially introduced to the market under the name “Eastman 910.” It quickly gained popularity for its ability to bond materials instantly without heat or pressure, requiring only a small amount of moisture to activate.
Impact and Applications
Super Glue’s impact extends far beyond household repairs. During the Vietnam War, medical personnel used cyanoacrylate to treat wounds on the battlefield, stopping bleeding and saving lives until proper medical care could be administered. Today, medical-grade versions of Super Glue are used in surgeries to close wounds and seal blood vessels, offering a faster alternative to traditional sutures.
Legacy of Dr. Harry Coover
Dr. Coover’s contribution to science went beyond Super Glue. He held over 460 patents and made significant advancements in fields such as graft polymerization and olefin polymerization. His work earned him numerous awards, including the National Medal of Technology and Innovation in 2009.
Fun Facts About Super Glue
- Accidental Discovery: Coover first created cyanoacrylate while trying to make clear plastic gun sights during WWII.
- Rediscovery: It took nine years for Coover to realize the adhesive’s potential.
- First Commercial Use: Super Glue was marketed in 1958 under the name “Eastman 910.”
- Medical Applications: Used in Vietnam to treat wounds and now in surgeries to replace sutures.
- Patents and Awards: Coover held over 460 patents and received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation.
Conclusion
The story of Super Glue is a testament to the power of accidental discoveries and the importance of recognizing potential in unexpected places. From its humble beginnings as a failed experiment to its widespread use today, Super Glue has become an indispensable tool in both everyday life and advanced medical procedures. Dr. Harry Coover’s legacy continues to inspire innovation, reminding us that even the most unexpected findings can lead to groundbreaking achievements.
