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Investigation of poly (glycidyl methacrylate-co-styrene) as a curing agent for soy-based wood adhesives

Investigation of poly (glycidyl methacrylate-co-styrene) as a curing agent for soy-based wood adhesives
Learning Objets
Summary
This study explores the synthesis and application of poly(glycidyl methacrylate-co-styrene) (PGS) emulsions as formaldehyde-free curing agents for soy-based wood adhesives. The research demonstrates that PGS, synthesized via emulsion polymerization, effectively enhances the water resistance of soybean flour (SF)-based adhesives used in plywood manufacturing. Key variables such as PGS/SF weight ratio, hot press conditions, and NaOH concentration were systematically evaluated to optimize adhesive performance. The findings support the use of bio-based, non-toxic materials in wood composite production, aligning with the principles of Green Chemistry by reducing reliance on hazardous substances like formaldehyde and promoting sustainable material use.

This Learning Object is particularly relevant for university students studying Green Chemistry, polymer science, or sustainable materials engineering. It provides a practical example of how chemical innovation can address environmental and health concerns in industrial applications.

Authors/Contributors:
Seyyed Yahya Mousavi, Jian Huang, Kaichang Li
Department of Wood Science and Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA

Citation:
Mousavi, S.Y., Huang, J., & Li, K. (2018). Investigation of poly(glycidyl methacrylate-co-styrene) as a curing agent for soy-based wood adhesives. International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives, 82, 67–71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijadhadh.2017.12.017
Keyword Tags
Soy Chemistry
Polymer Chemistry
Materials Science
Renewable Feedstocks
Adhesives
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Investigation of poly (glycidyl methacrylate-co-styrene) as a curing agent for …
Learning Goals/Student Objectives
Learning Goals
1. Understand the principles of Green Chemistry and how they apply to the development of sustainable adhesives.
2. Explore the chemical structure and function of bio-based polymers and curing agents.
3. Analyze experimental design and data interpretation in the context of materials testing and optimization.
4. Evaluate the environmental and health impacts of traditional versus bio-based adhesive systems.
5. Apply knowledge of polymer chemistry to real-world industrial challenges in wood composite manufacturing.

Student Objectives
By the end of this lesson or module, students will be able to:
1. Describe the role of poly(glycidyl methacrylate-co-styrene) (PGS) as a curing agent in soy-based adhesives.
2. Explain how molecular interactions between epoxy groups and soy protein functional groups contribute to adhesive performance.
3. Compare the effectiveness of different PGS/SF ratios, press conditions, and NaOH concentrations in improving water resistance.
4. Interpret FTIR spectra and titration data to assess polymer composition and functionality.
5. Assess the sustainability of bio-based adhesives in comparison to formaldehyde-based systems.
6. Design an experiment to test alternative curing agents or formulations using Green Chemistry principles.
Object Type
Case studies
Journal articles
Audience
Upper/Advanced Undergraduate
Common pedagogies covered
Context-based learning
Green Chemistry Principles
Less Hazardous Chemical Syntheses
Designing Safer Chemicals
Use of Renewable Feedstocks
Design for Degradation
Safer Chemistry for Accident Prevention
U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Good Health and Well-Being
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Responsible Consumption and Production
Climate Action
Life Below Water
Life on Land
Safety Precautions, Hazards, and Risk Assessment
Chemical Hazards
🟢 Glycidyl Methacrylate (GMA):
Irritant to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract
Potential sensitizer; handle in fume hood
🟢 Styrene:
Flammable and volatile; neurotoxic at high exposure
Use in well-ventilated areas with vapor control
🟢 Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH):
Strong corrosive; causes burns and eye damage
Use appropriate PPE and handle with care

Physical Hazards
🟢 Hot Pressing Equipment:
High temperature (≥130 °C) and pressure (up to 150 psi)
Risk of burns and mechanical injury; use heat-resistant gloves and follow equipment protocols

Environmental Hazards
🟢 Organic Solvents (e.g., toluene):
VOCs contribute to air pollution; dispose of properly
Avoid release into drains or environment

Safety Precautions
Wear lab coat, gloves, and safety goggles at all times
Conduct polymerization and solvent handling in a fume hood
Use heat-resistant gloves during hot pressing
Label and store chemicals properly
Follow institutional waste disposal protocols

Risk Assessment
Identify all hazardous materials and procedures
Evaluate exposure routes (inhalation, skin contact, ingestion)
Implement engineering controls (fume hood, ventilation)
Ensure availability of emergency eyewash and safety shower
Train personnel on chemical spill response and first aid
NGSS Standards, if applicable
Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs)
HS-PS1-3: Plan and conduct an investigation to gather evidence to compare the structure of substances at the bulk scale to infer the strength of interactions between particles.
The study investigates molecular interactions between soy protein and epoxy groups in PGS, affecting adhesive strength and water resistance.

HS-PS2-6: Communicate scientific and technical information about why the molecular-level structure is important in the functioning of designed materials.
The research highlights how molecular design (epoxy content, polymer structure) influences the performance of bio-based adhesives.

HS-ETS1-3: Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and trade-offs.
The study evaluates cost, environmental impact, and performance of soy-based adhesives as alternatives to formaldehyde-based resins.

Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs)
Planning and Carrying Out Investigations:
The authors systematically vary parameters (e.g., PGS/SF ratio, NaOH concentration, press time) to test adhesive performance.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data:
Data from water resistance tests are used to determine optimal conditions for adhesive formulation.

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions:
The study proposes a sustainable solution to formaldehyde emissions in wood adhesives.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence:
The authors support their hypothesis about curing mechanisms with experimental data and chemical reasoning.

Crosscutting Concepts
Structure and Function:
The molecular structure of PGS and its functional epoxy groups are directly tied to its effectiveness as a curing agent.

Cause and Effect:
Changes in formulation parameters cause measurable differences in adhesive performance.

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Submitted by

Kris Weigal
Published on
Moderation state
Published
Collection
Soy Chemistry Literature