Popular adhesive celebrates local milestone.

 

Bostik’s iconic Blu Tac adhesive is celebrating its 50th anniversary in the Australian market.

 

The product was originally developed in 1969 in the UK as an accidental by-product of an attempt to develop a new sealant using chalk powder, rubber and oil.

 

It was originally white, but consumer research showed concerns that children may mistake it for chewing gum, and blue colouring was added, giving it its household name.

 

Blu Tack arrived in Australia not long after, and has been manufactured at Bostik Australia’s Thomastown plant in Victoria, Australia since 1979. 

 

Blu Tack Colour was introduced in 2003, primarily designed for moulding and play, however still holding the same properties of the original reusable adhesive.

 

As for other uses, the New Zealand Government Earthquake Commission has recommended that products such as Blu Tack should be used to prevent ornaments and small household items from falling or moving in the event of an earthquake. 

 

Bostik is part of the Paris-based Arkema group, a global manufacturer of specialty materials.