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Background
We are a beauty company with a strong presence in professional nail design and care, now expanding into durable, easy-to-apply alternatives that offer long-lasting wear and salon-quality results at home.
People, especially younger generations, are gravitating towards artificial nails. Nail designs enhance personal style, boost confidence, and add a touch of creativity to daily life. Artificial nails allow consumers to complete a sophisticated manicure in under 20 minutes at home and at a lower price point compared to traditional methods (lacquer, gel).
Artificial nails comprised of ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic are often adhered using one of the following three methods: pressure-sensitive adhesive tabs (acrylates copolymer adhesive), cyanoacrylate glue, or UV-curable methacrylate chemistry (listed from weakest to strongest adhesion). Pop-off is common with the first two methods, which can be frustrating for the wearer and compromise the manicure. The third method provides strong adhesion but can only be used with clear artificial nails, as UV light must penetrate through the plastic to trigger polymerization. A key challenge is developing stronger, more reliable adhesives that avoid pop-off while remaining flexible or weak enough to not pull, hurt, or damage natural nails.
What we're looking for:
We are seeking an innovative adhesion promoter suitable for non-transparent artificial nails. We are open to collaborating with experts in materials science, polymer chemistry, or biomedical engineering to develop a viable solution. Feasible cost is essential as the final product would be commercially available to consumers.
Must-have requirements are:
- Supported by rationale or existing evidence for safe use on skin and nails
- Adheres effectively to both ABS plastic and natural nail surfaces
- Adhesive performance lasts at least 2 weeks
Nice-to-have requirements are:
- Supports easy consumer application and non-damaging removal
- Maintains aesthetic thickness (1-3 mm)
Please note: Faculty and researchers interested in applying for these opportunities based on technologies developed or disclosed at Vanderbilt must submit their proposals through the CTTC.