Ford Uses Biomimicry to Develop Adhesive for Vehicles

Ford has been known for its innovation and determination to ensure the environment from Utah to the East Coast is fit for driving. To further keep its F150 trucks running on the roads and provide a greener environment, Ford is experimenting adhesive alternatives for natural rubber.

To begin their efforts, Ford has introduced soy foam seating, wheat straw storage bins and a wood cellulose composite in place of fiberglass. Deborah Mielewski, who oversees Ford’s research into bio-based plastics and other innovated solutions, explained to Clean Technica, “In the process of learning, we discovered there’s a lot of waste products and inefficiencies in the industry.” 

As the process of development continued to unfold, more ideas revolving around nature began to develop, ensuring vehicles such as the F150 remain environment-friendly. As a result, Ford has taken biomimicry into consideration. 

Biomimicry seeks sustainable solutions to human challenges by emulating nature’s time-tested patterns and strategies, explains Biomimicry.org. Patterns and observations are made in wildlife environments from deserts in Utah to the North’s bone-chilling lands.

Unfortunately, materials used in automotive production are made unrecyclable when glue is applied. Glue makes foam cling to plastics and fabrics and cannot be removed without damaging the materials or leaving a sticky residue.

As an example of biomimicy, Ford’s studying how the gecko makes strong bonds on surfaces which can easily be broken with no residue left behind. Ford is closely working with Proctor & Gamble and The Biomimicry Institute to industrially imitate the gecko’s adhesive.

Additionally, the gecko’s sticky pad is a sturdy and innovate option—much like Ford’s F150 truck. Ford’s media team stated, “… a typical mature gecko weighing 2.5 ounces is capable of supporting 293 pounds.”

Ford is also searching for more opportunities to repurpose materials. The company is considering local resources easily accessed around the country. East of Utah in America’s Midwest, soybeans are considered an abundant resource.

“With biobased materials, industry can utilize locally, just like people are eating locally,” said Mielewski. Because the soybeans are relatively local, Ford is keeping this biobased resource in consideration for further testing.

Ford’s creativity doesn’t stop there. Mielewski is considering endless possibilities involving algae, bamboo, oat hulls and mustard seed oil. Mielewski finds these resources valuable because of their vast and quick production.

The next time you step into your durable F150 to explore the mountains of Utah, keep in mind Ford’s dedication to providing you with comfort and safety in addition to a clean environment for all to enjoy.

Jeffrey Herbert is a automative writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Henry Day Ford. Follow on Twitter