SolutionsWhat Are Sustainable Adhesives?

With a goal of enabling the earth and humans to coexist into the future, sustainable adhesives meet increasing governmental regulations and consumer environmental concern. 

Contact APPLIED to access adhesives that are:

• Biodegradable—Biodegradable adhesives are made with materials that are natural and renewable—resources that are not depleted when used. As natural organisms break down biodegradable adhesive, the process produces carbon dioxide, water, and other natural elements that are helpful for the earth. These sustainable adhesives are often used for packaging, envelopes, hygiene products, and medical devices.
• Compostable—Going beyond the requirements for biodegradable, compostable adhesive must break down in a way that leaves soil suitable for growing food.
  
• Repulpable—When paper is recycled, it goes through a repulping process that turns waste paper back into pulp that can then be used to make new paper products. Repulpable adhesive is fully soluble in water and dissolves during paper repulping. This sustainable adhesive is often used for cardboard boxes, envelopes, and other paper products.
• Recyclable—When an end-use product is no longer usable, recyclable adhesive can be melted down for new material, without creating waste or residue. The key for sustainable adhesive to be considered recyclable is that there must be a market for the new material that is created. Recyclable adhesives are typically used for glass, aluminum, and steel bonding—particularly in the automotive industry.