SeaTak Coral Adhesive
Permanently adhere coral fragments with shell polymers
- novel underwater adhesive
- inspired by the chemistry of mussel byssus glands
SeaTak is a completely novel underwater adhesive, inspired by the chemistry of mussel byssus glands.
For centuries, humans have been impressed by the immense adhesive power with which mussels can attach to any surface. Science has since been able to mimic the chemical processes of this adhesive bond to create a durable, non-toxic, and easy-to-use adhesive based on shell polymers. This development was specifically targeted to have an optimal and strong underwater adhesive for the restoration of coral reefs, and this adhesive is perfect for attaching stone coral fragments in reef aquariums.
SeaTak CORAL ADHESIVE Features
- adheres underwater
- high initial strength
- repositionable, moldable, and super strong after curing within a reasonable timeframe
- coral polyps begin to overgrow the adhesive within a short period of time
Instructions
The procedure varies greatly depending on the specific application, such as fragmenting stone corals in the aquarium or for aquaculture, attaching a fragment to an artificial substrate, or directly adhering a coral fragment to a rock formation, whether in an aquarium or natural habitat.
Another application would be creating rock decorations, such as live rock or reef ceramics or other artificial rock materials, and this can be done dry or wet, i.e., underwater.
Understanding the adhesive is important as it does not behave like cyanoacrylate or underwater epoxy.
The application technique is significantly different from usual bonding processes. Therefore, it is advisable to make a trial with a small amount of the adhesive before using it with live coral fragments.
It is advisable to always work with protective gloves, not only to avoid skin contact but also to facilitate later cleaning.
Procedure for Bonding:
Preparation
First, prepare the surfaces to be bonded, clean them, and roughen them if necessary. However, the surfaces do not need to be dry.
Application
Apply the adhesive with a suitable tool such as a spatula or squeeze the material from the tube at the point of use. This can be done dry or underwater. Do not use the material sparingly, as ample material is often necessary for sufficient stability.
Work quickly, as in a humid environment, the adhesive forms a skin on the surface of the material, reducing its stickiness.
Curing
Then let the adhesive cure: Moisture is the activator, so it begins to harden immediately.
The material immediately withstands light water flow in the aquarium. Approximately 50 to 80 percent of the final strength is achieved by the next day.
Afterwards
After the work procedure, you should immediately begin cleaning the work area. Contaminations from traces of uncured adhesive can be cleaned with acetone (nail polish remover) or 91% isopropyl alcohol. Cured adhesive must be removed mechanically by grinding or crushing.
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