Obit

Super Glue Inventor Harry Coover Dies

Harry Coover was 94.

Thanks Mr. Coover, for the memories: Harry Coover, the inventor of Super Glue, died on Saturday at the age of 94. Coover invented the formula during World War II while trying to come up with an adhesive for use in clear plastic gun sights—but canned it after it proved too sticky. Then, working with a partner in 1951, he brought it back while researching a temperature resistant coating for jet cockpits. Once again, it was too sticky, ruining expensive laboratory equipment. This time, however, Coover and his partner realized its potential value. Seven years later, the first type of Super Glue hit the market. Coover never made much money of the substance: It did not become a commercial hit until after his patents had expired.