How a failed aerospace adhesive became a global office staple

The Invention Nobody Wanted That Became One of the Top Selling Office Products of All Time · 6:30 · Video: Today I Found Out · Watch at the source

In short: Discover the accidental origin of the Post-it note, born from a 3M scientist's attempt to create a super-strong glue for the aerospace industry.

In 1968, 3M scientist Spencer Silver was developing high-strength adhesives intended for aircraft construction. Instead of the powerful bond he sought, he produced Acrylate Copolymer Microspheres—an incredibly weak, pressure-sensitive adhesive. This unexpected failure eventually paved the way for one of the most successful office products in history.

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