Fusion of seashell nacre and marine bioadhesive analogs: High-strength nanocompoisite by layer-by-layer assembly of clay and L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylaianine polymer

A novel nanostructured composite film (see figure) that takes advantage of two different natural materials-layered nacre and the marine adhesive of mussels-is prepared. L-3,4-Dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) molecules impart unusual adhesive strength to the clay composite and the hardening mechanism found in the natural cement plays an equally important role in the strengthening of the nanostructured nacre.