Accidental Innovation: The Incredible Story Behind Super Glue

by | Mar 22, 2025 | Innovation

Accidental Innovation The Super Glue Story

Innovation often arrives when you least expect it. Few stories capture the magic of unexpected discovery as vividly as the tale of Super Glue. This revolutionary adhesive was born from what appeared to be a failed experiment—yet it transformed entire industries and continues to inspire innovators today.

In this article, we explore the fascinating journey of Super Glue, from its accidental origins during World War II to its evolution into a multi-purpose household and industrial essential. We’ll examine the lessons learned along the way and share additional examples of accidental innovations. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, inventor, or simply a curious reader, this story reminds us that failure is often the first step toward success.

The Birth of a Revolutionary Adhesive

A Misguided Experiment Sparks a Discovery

In 1942, during the intense innovation efforts of World War II, Dr. Harry Coover embarked on a project with a very specific goal: to develop clear plastic gun sights that could improve the accuracy and efficiency of military weapons. The stakes were high, and every detail mattered.

However, the formula Dr. Coover developed behaved in an entirely unexpected way. Instead of producing a transparent, durable plastic, the compound stuck to everything it touched. Gun sights, which required clarity and precision, were not the intended outcome. At first, this property was seen as a failure. The material was simply too “sticky” to be used for its original purpose.

Despite the disappointment, Coover noticed something remarkable: the same adhesive properties that had ruined his gun sights could bond objects together incredibly fast and with tremendous strength. Although the material was set aside at the time, this initial experiment planted the seed for one of the most significant accidental innovations in modern history.

World War II and the Drive for Innovation

During World War II, innovation was not just encouraged—it was a necessity. Military research labs were hubs of creativity, where even unplanned discoveries could change the course of the war. Dr. Coover’s work, while aimed at one goal, ultimately laid the groundwork for a product that would have applications far beyond the battlefield.

  • 1942: Dr. Coover’s primary objective was to create clear, durable plastic for gun sights.

  • Unexpected Outcome: The formula’s adhesive nature, though a setback for optics, showed immense potential as a bonding agent.

  • Key Realization: Sometimes, what appears to be a failure is actually an unrecognized opportunity waiting to be developed.

This early setback taught an important lesson: in the realm of innovation, every experiment has value—even if its success lies in an entirely different direction than originally intended.

Rediscovery at Eastman Kodak

A Second Look at a Forgotten Formula

Years later, Dr. Coover’s groundbreaking adhesive was given a second chance. While working at the Eastman Kodak Company, he was tasked with developing a heat-resistant acrylate polymer for jet canopies. It was during this project that the adhesive’s true potential was rediscovered.

A serendipitous moment occurred when a coworker inadvertently used the adhesive between a pair of refractometer prisms. The prisms fused together almost instantaneously and with a bond so strong that it was impossible to separate them. This accident brought to light the incredible strength and reliability of the adhesive.

The Transformation to Super Glue

The formula, initially labeled Eastman 910, was now seen in an entirely new light. Recognizing its commercial potential, the adhesive was re-evaluated and eventually rebranded as Super Glue. What began as a failed experiment for clear plastics had now become a revolutionary product known for its rapid bonding and impressive strength.

  • New Application: While working on jet canopies, the adhesive was rediscovered in an unexpected scenario.

  • Serendipity at Work: The accidental bonding of refractometer prisms demonstrated the adhesive’s robustness.

  • Commercial Potential: Eastman 910 was reborn as Super Glue, paving the way for a product that would soon become indispensable.

The rediscovery at Eastman Kodak not only validated the potential of the adhesive but also underscored the importance of revisiting “failures” with fresh eyes. It was a turning point that transformed a laboratory mishap into a multi-billion-dollar industry standard.

Why Super Glue Changed the Game

Unmatched Strength and Versatility

Super Glue’s reputation is built on its incredible strength and versatility. One of its most astonishing properties is that a square inch of Super Glue can hold approximately one ton of weight. This remarkable bonding power has been demonstrated in public tests—one of which famously involved bonding a car to a crane. Such dramatic displays of strength have made the product a household name and a trusted tool in both everyday repairs and industrial applications.

  • Incredible Bonding: The adhesive forms an almost instantaneous bond that is extremely strong.

  • Versatility: From fixing broken ceramics at home to industrial uses in aerospace and automotive industries, Super Glue has found a wide array of applications.

  • Visual Impact: Demonstrations of its power, such as bonding heavy machinery or vehicles, have captured public imagination and confidence.

Life-Saving Applications on the Battlefield

Super Glue isn’t just a tool for quick fixes—it has played a critical role in saving lives. During the Vietnam War, an innovative adaptation of Super Glue was used in a spray form to help stop bleeding on the battlefield. In critical moments where traditional medical supplies were scarce, the rapid bonding properties of Super Glue provided a temporary solution to save lives.

  • Rapid Response: Its quick-acting formula allowed medics to use it as a temporary hemostatic agent.

  • Battlefield Innovation: In the midst of war, adapting a commercial adhesive for medical use proved to be a life-saving innovation.

  • Wider Implications: This application underscored the potential for products to have unexpected uses in entirely different fields.

Beyond the Laboratory: A Catalyst for Innovation

The story of Super Glue is a powerful reminder that innovation is not always a linear process. It shows how a product developed for one purpose can evolve to serve multiple industries. The journey of Super Glue—from a failed optical material to an essential adhesive—demonstrates that failure and unexpected outcomes are often the breeding grounds for breakthroughs.

  • Cross-Industry Impact: Super Glue’s evolution has influenced fields ranging from manufacturing to medicine.

  • Inspiration for Innovators: Its history encourages a mindset that is open to experimentation and resilient in the face of setbacks.

  • Enduring Legacy: The adhesive continues to be a testament to the power of repurposing and adapting unexpected discoveries.

Lessons from an Accidental Breakthrough

Embrace the Unexpected

One of the most significant lessons from the Super Glue story is the value of embracing failure. Dr. Coover’s journey teaches us that what might initially seem like a mistake can be a stepping stone to something far greater. It’s important for innovators to view every setback as an opportunity for learning and growth.

“Intelligence is not to make no mistakes. But quickly to see how to make them good.” – Bertolt Brecht

This perspective encourages not only persistence but also creative thinking. Rather than discarding a failed experiment, it’s essential to examine its potential from a different angle.

Tips for Innovators and Entrepreneurs

  • Encourage Experimentation: Create an environment where trying new ideas is welcomed—even if they might lead to failures. Experimentation drives creativity and often reveals hidden opportunities.

  • Learn from Setbacks: Each failed attempt provides valuable lessons that can refine your approach and lead to improved outcomes in the future.

  • Foster Collaboration: Cross-disciplinary collaboration brings fresh perspectives that can spark unexpected solutions. Combining expertise from different fields often leads to groundbreaking innovations.

  • Stay Open-Minded: Flexibility is key. Sometimes, the best ideas emerge when you’re willing to pivot from your original plan. Be receptive to serendipity and unexpected results.

A Culture of Innovation

Building a culture that embraces experimentation and views failure as part of the journey is crucial for long-term success. When team members feel empowered to take risks without the fear of immediate failure, it creates an environment ripe for breakthrough ideas. This approach has been a common thread in many innovative companies and research institutions.

  • Risk-Taking: Encourage calculated risks and reward creative problem-solving.

  • Iterative Improvement: Adopt a mindset that values continuous improvement through learning from mistakes.

  • Diverse Perspectives: Bring together a team with varied backgrounds to enrich the creative process and identify hidden potentials.

Additional Examples of Accidental Innovations

Accidental innovation isn’t unique to Super Glue. History is replete with examples of groundbreaking discoveries that emerged from unexpected accidents:

  • Penicillin: In 1928, Alexander Fleming noticed that a mold contaminating his petri dishes was killing surrounding bacteria. This fortuitous observation led to the discovery of penicillin, the first true antibiotic, which has since saved countless lives.

  • Microwave Oven: Percy Spencer, an engineer working with radar technology, observed that a candy bar in his pocket had melted when exposed to microwave radiation. This unexpected event led him to experiment further, eventually resulting in the invention of the microwave oven. Learn More

  • Post-it Notes: Originally, an attempt to create a strong adhesive failed, resulting in a repositionable glue. Instead of discarding the invention, it was repurposed into the Post-it Note—a now ubiquitous office supply that has revolutionized the way we organize and communicate ideas.

These examples highlight a common theme: innovation often blossoms from the willingness to see potential in what initially appears to be a failure.

FAQ: Quick Insights on Super Glue and Accidental Innovation

Q: What makes Super Glue so effective?
A: Super Glue’s unique formula allows it to form a rapid, strong bond—capable of holding up to one ton per square inch.

Q: How was Super Glue discovered?
A: It was an accidental discovery during a 1942 experiment aimed at creating clear plastic gun sights. Instead, the formula proved to be an exceptionally powerful adhesive.

Q: Are there other products discovered by accident?
A: Yes. Examples include penicillin, the microwave oven, and Post-it Notes—all arising from unexpected experimental outcomes.

Q: What lesson does Super Glue’s story teach?
A: It shows that every setback holds potential. Embracing and learning from failure can lead to revolutionary innovations.

Explore More About Innovation

The story of Super Glue is just one example of how accidents can lead to monumental breakthroughs. For those looking to dive deeper into other innovative technologies and learn about creative problem-solving techniques, consider exploring these resources:

Conclusion: Turning Setbacks into Success

The accidental discovery of Super Glue stands as a powerful reminder that innovation is often born from unexpected circumstances. Dr. Harry Coover’s journey—from a failed experiment aimed at improving gun sights to the creation of a revolutionary adhesive—teaches us the value of persistence, adaptability, and open-mindedness.

By cultivating a culture that embraces experimentation and values the lessons hidden within every setback, innovators across industries can transform apparent failures into opportunities for groundbreaking success. Whether you’re developing new products or seeking creative solutions to everyday challenges, remember that every failed experiment has the potential to lead to the next big breakthrough.

Innovation is rarely a straight path. Instead, it is a winding road filled with unexpected turns, serendipitous discoveries, and valuable lessons. As you navigate your own creative journey, let the story of Super Glue inspire you to view challenges as opportunities—because sometimes, the most remarkable innovations emerge when you dare to look beyond the obvious.

This comprehensive exploration of accidental innovation not only delves into the history and science behind Super Glue but also offers actionable insights for entrepreneurs and innovators alike. Embrace failure, remain flexible, and keep pushing the boundaries—because your next big breakthrough might be just around the corner.

By examining this story in depth and drawing lessons from each twist and turn, we hope you find inspiration to tackle challenges in your own field. Remember, innovation isn’t always planned. Sometimes, it’s an unexpected gift waiting to be discovered in the midst of failure.