Fixatives from the 1800s

When the first joint implants were tried in the late 1800s, researchers experimented with many different formulae for bonding agents.

Here are a few of the ingredients that they used. Can you identify them?

Mouse over the image for the answer.

Find out how replacements are held in place today!

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	This substance is made from the sap of conifers. It has a long history of use as an adhesive and was a natural substance for early researchers to explore when looking for a way to hold implants in place.
Today, it is used as an ingredient in mascara, lipstick, and many other products. Violinists apply it to their bows to increase friction with the violin strings, while ballet dancers use it on their toe shoes to reduce the chance of slipping!