Superglue was discovered by accident during development research on...?

The original cyanoacrylates were synthesized in 1947 by Alan Ardis in the midst of a search for materials suitable for clear plastic gun sights for the war effort. A team of scientists headed by Harry Coover Jr. stumbled upon a formulation that stuck to everything with which it came in contact. The team quickly rejected the substance for the wartime application, but in 1951, while working as researchers for Eastman Kodak, Coover and a colleague, Fred Joyner, rediscovered cyanoacrylates. The two realized the true commercial potential, and a form of the adhesive was first sold in 1958 under the title Eastman #910.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org

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22 Comments

Bill Coe

Good question. There is another use for superglue which I assume was discovered by accident. Fingerprinting is an important element of crime scene investigation. Superglue (cyanoacrylate) can be used to develop finger prints.

Robert Snow

Also good for temporary closure of cuts !

Chrissie

In my experience, superglue fails to hold the items I actually want to bond together, but sticks to the skin most effectively.

markkcolemann

I was under the impression that it was accidentally discovered during the Vietnam war when it was found to help hold injured servicemen together until proper medical treatment could be used to save their lives

Char

I didn't know that

rosemarymee

Which war was being fought in 1947?

tbear

Who would have thought? First thing this morning, I learned something new! Thank you, Frank Cowell! BTW, I got it wrong but I will remember this! Great question and explanation! 😊👍