Witness History

The invention of superglue

Apr 1, 2025

Dive into the accidental invention of superglue, sparked by Dr. Harry Coover's unexpected discovery during a 1951 experiment. It soon transformed into a consumer sensation after a memorable television demonstration. Find out how this quick-setting adhesive not only revolutionized everyday repairs but took on a surprising role in medical applications, enhancing battlefield medicine. Personal anecdotes from Coover's grandson add a heartfelt touch, highlighting the legacy of innovation that superglue represents.

10:22

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Quick takeaways

Dr. Harry Coover's discovery of cyanoacrylate in 1951 transformed from a failed experiment into a groundbreaking adhesive by 1958 as superglue.

The unexpected commercial success of superglue was largely due to a game show demonstration, showcasing its incredible bonding capabilities to the public.

Deep dives

The Accidental Invention of Superglue

Superglue was invented by Dr. Harry Coover in 1951 while he was attempting to create a heat-resistant material for aircraft canopies. During his research, he discovered that cyanoacrylate, the chemical he was working with, had adhesive properties that stuck virtually everything together, leading him to theorize its potential as a glue. By 1958, this substance, initially known as Eastman 910, was commercialized and gained widespread popularity due to its rapid bonding capabilities, requiring just a single drop to join materials. The unexpected success of superglue was significantly bolstered when Coover demonstrated its power on a game show, lifting a man with only one drop, ultimately branding it as 'super glue' and prompting consumers to seek it for home use.

Intro

2min

The Exciting Origins of Superglue and Its Dramatic Reveal

2min

The Accidental Discovery of Superglue

2min

The Unexpected Medical Breakthrough of Superglue

2min

The Legacy of an Inventor and the Surprises of Superglue

3min

In 1951, American chemist Dr Harry Coover was experimenting with a substance called cyanoacrylate but it was sticking to everything.

He realised its potential as an adhesive and it went on sale in 1958 as Eastman 910, because it only took 10 seconds to set.

But his product only became a commercial success after an appearance on a game show, I've Got a Secret, where Harry demonstrated his glue could hold the weight of the presenter.

Rachel Naylor speaks to Harry's grandson, Adam Paul.

Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.

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(Photo: Dr Harry Coover holds up items stuck together with superglue in 1986. Credit: AP / Fred Jewell)

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Witness History

The invention of superglue

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

The Accidental Invention of Superglue

Medical Innovations and Recognition

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts