Uppsala
Historically, adhesives were sourced from natural materials, but by the 20th century, they began to be synthesized from oil-based resources e.g. petroleum and natural gas, which offered durability for challenging conditions. However, the environmental impact of synthetic adhesives, which are derived from non-renewable resources, has sparked growing interest in more sustainable, bio-based adhesives made from renewable materials.
This course provides doctoral students with a comprehensive understanding of bio-based adhesives, focusing on their chemistry, performance, applications, and practical use in the wood products industry. Students will engage in both theoretical learning and hands-on laboratory work, including synthesizing adhesives, characterizing their properties, and applying them to the production of wood-based panels. By the end of the course, participants will be able to synthesise and test bio-based adhesives, fabricate and evaluate wood-based products, critically analyse recent advancements, and contribute innovative solutions to the industry.
For more information on the course please see the official SLU course page.
The course is divided into seven modules, blending theoretical learning with hands-on practical experience to give doctoral studentsa well-rounded understanding of bio-based adhesives.
**Theoretical modules**
Module 1: Introduction
- Overview of the field of bio-based adhesives, with a focus on developments in Sweden and Europe.
- Introduction to current challenges and opportunities in the wood products industry.
Module 2: Chemistry (Mandatory)
- Fundamental theories of adhesion and their application to bio-based adhesives.
- Classification of adhesives, including synthetic and bio-based alternatives.
- Exploration of bio-adhesives for various substrates such as wood, paper, and other natural materials.
Module 3: Performance (Mandatory)
- Key performance parameters of bio-adhesives, including bond strength, durability, and environmental resistance.
- Factors influencing adhesive performance, such as substrate type, curing conditions, and formulation.
Module 4: Applications (Mandatory)
- Industrial applications of bio-based adhesives in wood products and beyond.
- Overview of manufacturing processes, product requirements, and standards.
- Practical approaches to laboratory-scale manufacturing and evaluation of adhesive performance.
**Practical modules**
Module 5: Synthesis (Mandatory)
- Synthesis of bio-based adhesives using laboratory-scale techniques.
- Understanding the preparation and formulation of adhesives tailored to specific applications.
Module 6: Analysis (Mandatory)
- Spectral and thermal analysis of bio-based adhesives (e.g. FTIR spectrosocpy, Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetery (DSC))
- Techniques for analysing adhesive properties, including viscosity, bond strength, and curing behaviour.
- Characterisation of adhesives to evaluate performance against industrial standards.
Module 7: Performance & Application (Mandatory)
- Laboratory manufacturing of wood-based panels using bio adhesives.
- Performance testing of wood panels, including mechanical tests and environmental durability assessments.