Eco-friendly adhesives: Harnessing nature for sustainable bonding
Researchers are exploring the use of sustainably sourced components, such as lignin and epoxidized soybean oil, to develop high-strength adhesives. These bio-based materials offer advantages beyond renewability, including improved mechanical properties and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional epoxy resins. Inspired by natural adhesives found in mussels and other organisms, scientists are incorporating catechol-based compounds and weak bonds into biomimetic adhesives to enhance toughness and performance. The development of eco-friendly antifungal coatings and recyclable non-isocyanate polyurethanes further demonstrates the potential of sustainable materials in the adhesives industry.