Promising eco-friendly alternatives to toxic formaldehyde-based adhesives have emerged and hold potential for marketing.

The use of conventional adhesives such Phenol-formaldehyde are known to release formaldehyde leading to various diseases and pollution. To combat this challenge several studies have been carried out to formulate green adhesives in the absence of formaldehyde that is biocompatible, non-toxic and have improved mechanical properties. Let’s have a look at a few innovative green adhesive solutions that have been granted patents within a year of filling signifying the novelty of the innovations and chances of realization in a commercialized product.

Chengdu Institute of Biology and Southwest University of Science and Technology collaborated to develop a green adhesive for the plantation of moss on barren lands that has enhanced peel strength of at least 11.8N/mm and also provides nutrition to the moss for growth. The adhesive comprises a combination of melamine, urea, attapulgite, sepiolite powder, konjac glucomannan, modified collagen, polymer latex and additives. Modified collagen is obtained through the treatment of collagen with water, theanine, and poly-L-glutamic acid, in the presence of ultraviolet light. The composition provides.

Hanseo University has developed a natural adhesive composition using carrageenan derived primarily from seaweed with significant improvements in adhesive strength, measuring at 44.53 kgf/cm2, as well as enhanced smoothness of the adhesive. One of the challenges with seaweed-derived carrageenan is its tendency to gel during the manufacturing process, which hinders the creation of a consistently spreadable adhesive. To address this issue and improve the adhesive properties, Hanseo University successfully removed kappa-carrageenan and iota-carrageenan from the seaweed extract, resulting in the isolation of purified lambda-carrageenan which serves as the main adhesive component. Additionally, polyvinylpyrrolidone and dextrin are incorporated into the adhesive composition. Polyvinylpyrrolidone functions as a viscosity control and adhesion auxiliary component, while dextrin serves as a solubility control and adhesion auxiliary component. Together, these components contribute to the overall smoothness and improved adhesion of the the composition.

As the mechanical properties of natural adhesives continue to advance, there is a promising opportunity to introduce them to the market for diverse applications. It is recommended to consider collaboration with the creators of these adhesives to harness their expertise in natural adhesive development technologies. Additionally, investing in universities to foster further innovation in this field can expedite the availability of such products in the market.