ABSTRACT
The use of protein-based adhesives has a long history that includes examples of adhesive systems based on several protein sources, such as animal protein, casein from milk, soy our, and blood [1]. Animal protein-based hot melt glues were used in many applications, including furniture manufacturing, because they set rapidly [2]. Caseins precipitated from skim milk under acidic conditions were used in the development of the glulam industry [3]. Soy our adhesives were the dominant glue in plywood well into the 20th century [1]. Blood was used mainly with other protein glues to provide improved moisture resistance [4]. The ability of a wide variety of proteins to serve as wood-bonding adhesives indicates a good natural afnity between proteins and wood. The main limitation of protein adhesives is that synthetic, fossil fuel-based adhesives tend to be more durable than protein adhesives. For a widespread resurgence in the use of protein adhesives, new technologies needed to be developed.
