Soy protein adhesives

Abstract

In the quest to manufacture and use building materials that are more environmentally friendly, soy adhesives can be an important component. Trees fix and store carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. After the trees are harvested, machinery converts the wood into strands, which are then bonded together with adhesives to form strandboard, used in constructing long-lasting houses. Soybeans fix both carbon dioxide and nitrogen and can be converted into flour that can be made into a waterborne adhesive for bonding wood strands together. Although soy and other protein adhesives were used for centuries, fossil fuel-based adhesives have generally replaced biobased adhesives because they are more cost-effective and durable. However, new soy technology and an interest in low formaldehyde emissions for interior wood products are providing an impetus for a resurgence of biobased adhesives.

Citation

Frihart, Charles R. 2010. Soy protein adhesives. McGraw-Hill yearbook of science & technology 2010. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill. c2010: 354-356: ISBN: 9780071639286: 0071639284.