Development and characterization of formaldehyde-free and isocyanate-free coldest adhesives from cross-laminated timber (CLT). 

CLT is emerging as superior building materials for mid- or high-rise buildings.  The existing adhesives for making CLT panels are either derived from carcinogenic formaldehyde or toxic isocyanates.  We are interesting in development and characterization of novel coldest adhesives that do not contain any formaldehyde and isocyanates, and are not derived from formaldehyde and isocyanates.

 

Development and characterization of pressure sensitive adhesives from renewable materials. 

Pressure sensitive adhesives (PSA) are widely as tapes, labels and packaging materials.  At present, PSA is derived from petrochemicals.  We have successfully developed several novel PSAs from vegetable oils and other renewable materials.  We will continue the development effort and try to commercialize our new PSAs.

 

Development and characterization of styrene-free unsaturated polyester resins.  

Unsaturated polyester (UPE) resins are widely used for production of fiber-reinforced composite materials.  The currently used UPE resins contain a very high amount of styrene.  Styrene has recently been re-classified as a “reasonably anticipated human carcinogen.”  We have developed two bio-based, and environmentally friendly chemicals for replacement of styrene in UPE resins.  Our styrene-free UPE resins are superior to or comparable to styrene-containing UPE resins in terms of mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced UPE resins.    We are trying to commercialize our newly developed styrene-free UPE resins and continue to develop new styrene replacements from renewable materials.