A method of bonding together surfaces of two or more elements and a product made by said method

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a method of bonding together surfaces of two or more elements, and to a product made with said method.

Background of the invention

In WO 2005/068574 there is disclosed a method of manufacturing a board using a hot melt adhesive to bond the mineral wool fibre elements together. When the elements are bonded together the hot-melt adhesive is cured by heating the bonded structure to a temperature of approx. 150-185 ^Q C.

EP1714780 discloses a laminate structure for use in or as an insulation board comprising: a) a first layer, which comprises a flexible material, and b) a second layer, which comprises a thermally insulating material; wherein an adhesive comprising an

organofunctional siloxy compound, optionally grafted to a polymer, is disposed between the first and second layers.

WO 2012/098040 discloses an insulated building wall comprising a composite thermal insulation system and an external building wall. The composite thermal insulation system comprises an at least two-layer thermal insulation cladding, with at least two layers, wherein the layers are joined to one another by means of an inorganic binder.

A wide range of products are created by bonding together the surfaces of two or more elements of any kind of materials.

A broad variety of these products is e.g. used within building construction and within the building interior and for many different purposes. Just by way of example and in very general terms such products for use in building construction might be used for structural and/or non-structural purposes, for external or interior use. Moreover, those used in the building interior might be used for all kind of claddings, coverings, scientific surfaces or to e.g. build furniture. Many of said products are achieved by bonding together the surfaces of two or more elements or layers of same type of products, or by bonding together layers of different types of products and product categories to each other. As most of these products are typically used in layers or panel-shaped form it's often referred to as laminates, or also as composites. However, in other instances it may also be shaped products, or loose products without a regular or defined regular shape.

Bonding together or laminating elements is utilized for different purposes respectively to achieve improved insulation (thermal and/or acoustic), strength, stability, appearance or other properties.

E.g. insulating characteristics of ready-made panels depend among other things upon the way in which individual panels are installed and/or bonded together at a construction site. The bigger the number of small panels necessary to form a requested surface, the bigger the number of edges at which panels are in mutual contact. The bigger the number of contact edges between the panels, the bigger the number of thermal bridges will be formed on the insulated surface as a result of inaccurate laying, improper adjustment of individual panels, and also as a result of increased risk of soiling contact surfaces.

Common factory made insulating materials are known in the art, such as e.g. mineral wool, expanded polystyrene, extruded polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam and others.

By way of example, in the past, phenol-formaldehyde resins which can be economically produced have been used as adhesive compositions for bonding together mineral wool elements.

However, these adhesives suffer from the disadvantage that they contain formaldehyde and they are therefore potentially harmful to handle and require protective measures when handling them on-site.

Non-phenol-formaldehyde binders which can be used as adhesives are sugar based binders, such as for example the compositions disclosed in EP2990494A1 ,

PCT/EP2015/080758, WO2007/014236, WO201 1/138458 and WO2009/080938. However, all these binders, when used as adhesives for bonding together the surfaces of e.g. mineral wool elements, suffer from the disadvantage that they require high temperatures for curing which makes it necessary to apply heat over a prolonged time to the elements to be bonded together. This does not only require additional equipment but can also cause a fire hazard, e.g. when bonding together isolation elements for a roof insulation on-site. Further, the high temperature curing of these known adhesives can cause the emission of harmful or irritating fumes which may require protective measures for the handling of this matter.

Another type of adhesive that has been used for gluing together e.g. mineral wool elements with each other or with other elements such as glass fleece or metal sheet is a polyurethane based adhesive. This may be a one- or two-component adhesive. Such adhesives do not necessarily have to be cured at high temperatures. However, these adhesives may also be harmful when handling and are not based on naturally occurring ingredients.

Other adhesives are based on PVA, bitumen, inorganic binders PUR, and/or

polyacrylates.

Other materials or elements as indicated above encompass inter alia products for use in building construction and the building interior. For several of those similar or same types of adhesives are used to glue elements together. Thus similar drawbacks of the prior art apply for said bondings and the respective adhesives.

Summary of invention

Accordingly, it was an object of the present invention to provide a method of bonding together the surfaces of two or more elements, whereby the method uses an adhesive that does not require high temperatures for curing and whereby during the handling, application, and curing of the adhesive exposure to harmful substances is minimized and no protective measures are necessary.

Moreover, it is an object of the present invention to propose an adhesive composition using renewable materials as starting materials. This object is achieved by a method of bonding together surfaces of two or more elements, said method comprising the steps of:

- providing two or more elements,

- applying an adhesive to one or more of the surfaces to be bonded together before, during or after contacting the surfaces to be bonded together with each other,

- curing the adhesive, wherein the adhesive comprises at least one hydrocolloid.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a product made by the described method.

By the invention it is found advantageous to make use of the particular type of adhesive, especially when it has the preferred features set out, as there can be provided particularly durable connections for elements of the various kinds.

It is surprisingly found that it is possible to bond together the surfaces of not only mineral wool elements with each other but a broad variety of all other kinds of elements by using the method described. It is further advantageous that the adhesive used can be cured at relatively low temperatures. Furthermore, since the adhesive used for the method in some embodiments does usually not contain any harmful substances and does usually not set free any harmful substances during the curing, the method can be carried out by any person on-site of use without any protective measures and without a need for specific training for the persons to carry out the method.

In a preferred embodiment said elements are of the building element type, such as for use in building construction and the building interior.

In a further embodiment, at least one of the two or more elements is an insulation element for building insulation, such as an element with a thermal resistance equal or greater than 0.25 m ² -K/W or a thermal conductivity equal or lower than 0.060 W/(m-K).

In another embodiment of the invention, at least one of the elements is an insulation element, in particular a mineral wool element, which is bound by a mineral wool binder corresponding to the adhesive.

Preferably, the step of curing is carried out at temperatures from 5 to 95 such as 10 to δΟ 'Ό, such as 20 to ΘΟ'Ό, such as 40 to 50 °C. More particularly, it may be advantageous that the step of curing comprises a drying process, involving blowing air or gas

over/through the elements and/or by increasing temperature. Hereby, the step of curing, which can be performed with or without the step of drying, can be performed on the building site where the elements are comprised in a building structure.

The curing process may commence immediately after application of the adhesive to the elements. The curing is defined as a process whereby the adhesive undergoes a physical and/or chemical reaction which in case of a chemical reaction usually increases the molecular weight of the compounds in the adhesive and thereby increases the viscosity of the adhesive, usually until the adhesive reaches a solid state.

In one embodiment the curing process comprises cross-linking and/or water inclusion as crystal water.

In one embodiment the cured adhesive contains crystal water that may decrease in content and raise in content depending on the prevailing conditions of temperature, pressure and humidity.

In one embodiment the curing process comprises a drying process.

In one embodiment the curing process comprises drying by pressure. The pressure may be applied by blowing air or gas through/over the elements and adhesive. The blowing process may be accompanied by heating or cooling or it may be at ambient temperature.

In one embodiment the curing process takes place in a humid environment.

The humid environment may have a relative humidity RH of 60-99%, such as 70-95%, such as 80-92%. The curing in a humid environment may be followed by curing or drying to obtain a state of the prevalent humidity.

In one embodiment the curing is performed in oxygen-depleted surroundings.

Without wanting to be bound by any particular theory, the applicant believes that performing the curing in an oxygen-depleted surrounding is particularly beneficial when the adhesive includes an enzyme because it increases the stability of the enzyme component in some embodiments, in particular of the transglutaminase enzyme, and thereby improves the crosslinking efficiency. In one embodiment, the curing process is therefore performed in an inert atmosphere, in particular in an atmosphere of an inert gas, like nitrogen.

In some embodiments, in particular in embodiments in which the adhesive includes phenolics, in particular tannins oxidizing agents can be added. Oxidising agents as additives can serve to increase the oxidising rate of the phenolics in particular tannins. One example is the enzyme tyrosinase which oxidizes phenols to hydroxy- phenols/quinones and therefore accelerates the adhesive forming reaction.

In another embodiment, the oxidising agent is oxygen, which is supplied to the adhesive. In one embodiment, the curing is performed in oxygen-enriched surroundings.

In one embodiment, the adhesive is not crosslinked.

In an alternative embodiment, the adhesive is crosslinked.

In one embodiment, the step of curing is performed at ambient temperature.

In one embodiment, the adhesive composition is allowed to cure at ambient temperature, that is, at the temperature existing at the building site, without application of a heat source. Ambient temperature may be from 10 ^Q C to 40 ^Q C.

Description of preferred embodiments

The elements

The method according to the present invention is particular suitable for bonding together the surfaces of two or more elements of any kind of materials. It can for instance be used to bond materials as they are e.g. used for in building construction, for structural and/or non-structural purposes, for external or interior use, and for thermal and/or acoustical insulation. Moreover, the method can be used to provide products for the building interior, such as for claddings, coverings, scientific surfaces or to e.g. build furniture. In one embodiment, it can both be used for bonding together two or more mineral wool elements, like e.g. isolation panels, and to bond together one or more mineral wool elements with one or more element which is not a mineral wool element.

In one embodiment, the two or more elements to be bonded together are two or more mineral wool elements.

In another embodiment, the two or more elements to be bonded together comprise at least one element, which is not a mineral wool element.

It has surprisingly being found that the adhesive used in the method according to the present invention can not only be used for binding mineral wool elements together but also for binding one or more mineral wool elements to a product, which is not a mineral wool element or for binding one or more elements to form a product, which are not mineral wool elements.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one element, which is not a mineral wool element, is selected from the group consisting of a fleece, such as a glass fibre fleece, a building structure, such as a wall, a ceiling, a roof, a wood-based product, such as a wood fibre board.

In yet another embodiment, none of the elements to be bonded together are mineral wool elements.

In one embodiment, elements may be chosen from insulation elements, like e.g.

expanded polystyrene, extruded polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam and others.

In one embodiment, elements may include structural composites often comprising engineered wood products but also faced fibre cement sidings etc.

Other such elements, not being mineral wool elements, might be selected from the functional type, like e.g. glass fibre reinforcing grids, vapor membranes, vapor barriers, waterproof membranes, bituminous membranes, fire barrier layers, aerogel blankets, foils, aluminium foils, aluminium sheets, metal sheets, plastic composites, plastic foils, gypsum fibre boards, paper, card board, honeycomb structures etc. The mineral wool element

Mineral wool elements generally comprise man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF) such as, e.g., glass fibres, ceramic fibres, basalt fibres, slag wool, mineral wool and stone wool, which are bonded together by a cured mineral wool binder such as a thermoset polymeric binder material. For use as thermal or acoustical insulation products, bonded mineral fibre mats are generally produced by converting a melt made of suitable raw materials to fibres in conventional manner, for instance by a spinning cup process or by a cascade rotor process. The fibres are blown into a forming chamber and, while airborne and while still hot, are sprayed with a binder solution and randomly deposited as a mat or web onto a travelling conveyor. The fibre mat is then transferred to a curing oven where heated air is blown through the mat to cure the binder and rigidly bond the mineral fibres together.

If desired, the web may be subjected to a shaping process before curing. The bonded mineral fibre element may be cut to a desired format e.g., in the form of a batt. Thus, the mineral wool elements, for instance, have the form of woven and nonwoven fabrics, mats, batts, slabs, sheets, plates, strips, rolls, granulates and other shaped articles which find use for example, as thermal or acoustical insulation materials, vibration damping, construction materials, facade insulation, reinforcing materials for roofing or flooring applications, as filter stock, as horticultural growing media and in other applications.

The mineral wool binder

The mineral wool binder is conventionally phenol-formaldehyde resins which can be economically produced and can be extended with urea prior to use as a binder. However, the existing and proposed legislation directed to the lowering or elimination of

formaldehyde emissions have led to the development of formaldehyde-free binders.

One group of non-phenol-formaldehyde binders are the addition/-elimination reaction products of aliphatic and/or aromatic anhydrides with alkanolamines, e.g., as disclosed in WO 99/36368, WO 01/05725, WO 01 /96460, WO 02/06178, WO 2004/007615 and WO 2006/061249. These binder compositions are water soluble and exhibit excellent binding properties in terms of curing speed and curing density. WO 2008/023032 discloses urea- modified binders of that type which provide mineral wool products having reduced moisture take-up.

Another group of non-phenol-formaldehyde binders are sugar based binders, such as for example disclosed in EP2990494A1 , PCT/EP2015/080758, WO2007/014236,

WO201 1/138458 and WO2009/080938.

Another group of binders are binders comprising at least one hydrocolloid.

Another group of binders are binders comprising at least one protein, and at least one enzyme.

Another group of binders are binders comprising at least one phenol and/or quinone containing compound, and at least one protein.

Other types of elements

Above is mentioned the utility of the present invention wherein at least one element being a mineral wool element (preferably factory made mineral wool (MW) products according to EN 13162). By the present invention it is realized that the elements may be selected from other factory made insulation materials of e.g. the following types: expanded polystyrene (EPS) according to EN 13163

extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) according to EN 13164

rigid polyurethane foam (PU) according to EN 13165

phenolic foam (PF) according to EN 13166

cellular glass (CG) according to EN 13167

wood wool (WW) according to EN 13168

expanded perlite board (EPB) according to EN 13169

products of expanded cork (ICB) according to EN 13170

wood fibre (WF) according to EN 13171

Other suitable insulation elements may be chosen from e.g. elements of bound fibrous materials, such as natural fibres, synthetic fibres, or a combination of natural and synthetic fibres. They may moreover include additives, like e.g. particulate material, such as aerogel, perlite, vermiculite, phase-change material or fire retardant.

Suitable natural fibres may be selected from animal fibres, such as sheep's wool, and plant fibres, such as cotton fibres, straw, hemp, flax. The natural fibres preferably do not include asbestos.

Suitable synthetic fibres may be inorganic, organic, or a mixture of organic and inorganic fibres. They may be selected from aramid fibres, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibres, carbon fibres, polyester fibres and polyamide fibres.

In one embodiment the elements making up the product according to the present invention could advantageously include structural composites, which provides excellent strength and stability, and among others often comprise engineered wood products but also faced fibre cement sidings etc.

Engineered wood includes a range of derivate wood products which are manufactured by bonding the strands, particles, fibres, or veneers or elements of wood, together with adhesives.

Such engineered wood products are e.g. defined in EN 13986 "Wood-based panels for use in construction", which refers to a number of products to be mentioned, e.g. OSB (EN 300), Particleboard (EN 312), Cement-bonded particleboard (EN 633), Fibreboard (EN 622), Plywood (EN 313), LVL or solid wood panels.

Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) is an engineered wood product that uses multiple layers of thin wood veneers assembled with adhesive, typically a resin. It is used for headers, beams, rimboard, and edge-forming material.

As a specific embodiment, the adhesive according to the present invention could even substitute the resin used to bind the respective elements, like e.g. the veneer layers forming an LVL board. Using the adhesive according to the present invention, the engineered wood products, exemplified above, the advantage of avoiding freeing any harmful substances during the curing is also obtained. Product types

The present invention is also directed to a product made by the method described above, such as a product achieved by bonding together surfaces of two or more elements of the same kind or of different kinds.

In one embodiment, two or three (and in some cases more) elements can be bonded together to form an insulation panel. The elements are bonded together at their largest surfaces. For example, the bottom surface of the first element is bonded to the top surface of the second element and the bottom surface of the second element is bonded to the top surface of the third element. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the major surfaces may be bonded together irrespective of being top- or bottom-surfaces. The products provided are useful e.g. for insulating various surfaces, including roofs, external walls of buildings and ceilings. They may be used as sound, thermal or fire insulation.

In one embodiment, a flat roof structure is insulated with mineral wool insulation elements whereby the elements are laid out on the flat roof in two layers, a top and bottom layer and elements from the top layer are bonded to elements from the bottom layer with the adhesive.

In one embodiment, an outer or inner wall is insulated with mineral wool insulation elements whereby the elements are placed on the outer or inner wall in two layers, a layer facing the wall and an outwards facing layer and elements from the layer facing the wall are bonded to outwards facing layers with the adhesive. The outer wall insulated in this way may form part of an ETICS (External Thermal Insulation Composite System).

In a further embodiment according to the present invention a mineral wool product or element comprises a fleece. A mineral wool product or element may be applied with an adhesive to one or both of the surfaces such as a major surface, the fleece is then contacted with said surface and the adhesive is cured. Alternatively or in addition, the fleece may be applied with the adhesive before contacting.

Other items than fleeces may be adhered to mineral wool products or elements with the method steps according to the invention.

Such other items may be made of a wall, plasterboard, metal, plastic. In yet another embodiment such elements or items might be selected from the functional type, like e.g. glass fibre reinforcing grids, vapour membranes, vapour barriers, waterproof membranes, bituminous membranes, fire barrier layers, aerogel blankets, foils, aluminium foils, aluminium sheets, metal sheets, plastic composites, plastic foils, gypsum fibre boards, paper, card board, honeycomb structures etc.

They may serve for reinforcing, weather protection, vapor control, as a protective measure, surface covering etc. or to simply further increase the properties of the final products achieved by the method of the present invention.

In an alternative embodiment, an element of rigid polyurethane foam (PU) is laminated on at least one major surface with a fleece, in particular a mineral fleece. The PU element may be applied with an adhesive according to the present invention to one or both of its major surfaces. The fleece is then contacted with said surface and the adhesive is cured. Alternatively or in addition, the fleece may be applied with the adhesive before contacting.

Such products are in particular suitable for insulating flat or flat inclined roofs or as part of a respective roofing system. The mineral fleece will serve as surface for the

gluing/bonding of a waterproof membrane. Said waterproof membrane may be applied using cold gluing, i.e. by e.g. using PU based adhesives, or by torching a bituminous roof membrane which is possible on such foam element due to the mineral fleece.

In one embodiment the elements making up the product according to the present invention could advantageously include structural composites, which provides excellent strength and stability, and among others often comprise engineered wood products as has been described above.

In a preferred embodiment, a laminated product comprising 3 layers of Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF) is achieved by the use of an adhesive according to the present invention. Elements of Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF) as specified according to European Standard EN 622 (part 5) are provided and the adhesive is applied to one or more of the elements major surfaces to be bonded together. The elements are then contacted with their respective surfaces and the adhesive is cured. Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) is an engineered wood product with excellent strength properties. It is stronger and much denser than Particleboard and can be used as a building material similar in application to Plywood. By laminating layers of MDF its strength properties can even be increased to provide structural strength to the building construction. It's primarily used for internal use applications and might additionally be provided with a decorative wood veneer surface layer by using the adhesive according to the present invention, thus constituting a further preferred embodiment of the invention.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, products for aesthetical or decorative purposes, so called decorative laminates, are referred to in the following. Said products are inter alia known in the art. Such laminates are laminated products primarily used as furniture surface materials, or wall coverings for both external and interior use. They can be manufactured as either high-pressure (HPL) or low-pressure laminate, with the two processes not being much different from each other except for the pressure applied in the pressing process. High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) are further specified according to European Standard EN 438.

HPL is typically made of resin impregnated cellulose layers which are consolidated under heat and pressure. The resin commonly being used is a urea-formaldehyde resin. The various layers comprise an overlay paper, which serves to improve the abrasion, scratch and heat-resistance, a decorative paper, which defines the design and is composed of coloured or printed paper, and finally a kraft paper, which is used as core material defining the product thickness. After the papers are impregnated with the resins, the three layers of paper/resin are placed into a press which simultaneously applies heat (120 °C) and pressure.

In an embodiment, the binder used for the before described HPL is substituted by the adhesive according to the present invention. As a result the heat being used in the press to consolidate the layers into a product can be substantially reduced to below 95 thus saving a substantial amount of energy. Moreover, during curing exposure to harmful substances is minimized and no protective measures are necessary.

Alternative wood-based panels or laminates basically for interior use are known to comprise melamine faced boards, in particular based on fibreboards. Reference is made to European Standard EN 14322 "Wood-based panels- Melamine faced boards for interior uses". Other decorative laminates are known to comprise composite panels, like e.g. aluminium composite panels (ACP) with different core materials, e.g. for use in rainscreen cladding, external cladding or facades of buildings. It's a type of flat panel that consists of two thin aluminium sheets bonded to a non-aluminium core. The core is commonly low-density polyethylene, or a mix of low-density polyethylene and mineral material to exhibit fire retardant properties. By way of example reference is made to products named

ALUCOBOND ^® or ALUCORE ^® , commercially available from 3A Composites GmbH.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aluminium composite panel is produced by providing elements like two thin aluminium sheets of each 0,5 mm thickness and a 5,0 mm thick low-density polyethylene core layer. The adhesive is applied to one or more of the elements major surfaces to be bonded together. The elements are then contacted with their respective surfaces and the adhesive is cured.

The adhesive for use in the method of the present invention

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least one hydrocolloid.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatine, pectin, starch, alginate, agar agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as

carboxymethylcellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, β-glucan.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a polyelectrolytic hydrocolloid.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatine, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose.

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatine and the at least one other hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, starch, alginate, agar agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as

carboxymethylcellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, β-glucan. Hydrocolloid

Hydrocolloids are hydrophilic polymers, of vegetable, animal, microbial or synthetic origin, that generally contain many hydroxyl groups and may be polyelectrolytes. They are widely used to control the functional properties of aqueous foodstuffs.

Hydrocolloids may be proteins or polysaccharides and are fully or partially soluble in water and are used principally to increase the viscosity of the continuous phase (aqueous phase) i.e. as gelling agent or thickener. They can also be used as emulsifiers since their stabilizing effect on emulsions derives from an increase in viscosity of the aqueous phase.

A hydrocolloid usually consists of mixtures of similar, but not identical molecules and arising from different sources and methods of preparation. The thermal processing and for example, salt content, pH and temperature all affect the physical properties they exhibit. Descriptions of hydrocolloids often present idealised structures but since they are natural products (or derivatives) with structures determined by for example stochastic enzymatic action, not laid down exactly by the genetic code, the structure may vary from the idealised structure.

Many hydrocolloids are polyelectrolytes (for example alginate, gelatine,

carboxymethylcellulose and xanthan gum).

Polyelectrolytes are polymers where a significant number of the repeating units bear an electrolyte group. Polycations and polyanions are polyelectrolytes. These groups dissociate in aqueous solutions (water), making the polymers charged. Polyelectrolyte properties are thus similar to both electrolytes (salts) and polymers (high molecular weight compounds) and are sometimes called polysalts.

The charged groups ensure strong hydration, particularly on a per-molecule basis. The presence of counterions and co-ions (ions with the same charge as the polyelectrolyte) introduce complex behavior that is ion-specific.

A proportion of the counterions remain tightly associated with the polyelectrolyte, being trapped in its electrostatic field and so reducing their activity and mobility. In one embodiment the adhesive comprise one or more counter-ion(s) selected from the group of Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2+.

Another property of a polyelectrolyte is the high linear charge density (number of charged groups per unit length).

Generally neutral hydrocolloids are less soluble whereas polyelectrolytes are more soluble.

Many hydrocolloids also gel. Gels are liquid-water-containing networks showing solid-like behavior with characteristic strength, dependent on their concentration, and hardness and brittleness dependent on the structure of the hydrocolloid(s) present.

Hydrogels are hydrophilic crosslinked polymers that are capable of swelling to absorb and hold vast amounts of water. They are particularly known from their use in sanitary products. Commonly used materials make use of polyacrylates, but hydrogels may be made by crosslinking soluble hydrocolloids to make an insoluble but elastic and hydrophilic polymer.

Examples of hydrocolloids comprise: Agar agar, Alginate, Arabinoxylan, Carrageenan, Carboxymethylcellulose, Cellulose, Curdlan, Gelatine, Gellan, β-Glucan, Guar gum, Gum arabic, Locust bean gum, Pectin, Starch, Xanthan gum. In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatine, pectin, starch, alginate, agar agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, β-glucan.

Examples of polyelectrolytic hydrocolloids comprise: gelatine, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as

carboxymethylcellulose.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a polyelectrolytic hydrocolloid.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatine, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose. In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a gel former.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is used in form of a salt, such as a salt of Na+, K+, NH4+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2+.

Gelatine

Gelatine is derived from chemical degradation of collagen. Gelatine is water soluble and has a molecular weight of 10.000 to 500.000 g/mol, such as 30.000 to 300.000 g/mol dependent on the grade of hydrolysis. Gelatine is a widely used food product and it is therefore generally accepted that this compound is totally non-toxic and therefore no precautions are to be taken when handling gelatine.

Gelatine is a heterogeneous mixture of single or multi-stranded polypeptides, typically showing helix structures. Specifically, the triple helix of type I collagen extracted from skin and bones, as a source for gelatine, is composed of two α1 (I) and one a2(l) chains.

Gelatine solutions may undergo coil-helix transitions.

A type gelatins is produced by acidic treatment. B type gelatines are produced by basic treatment.

Chemical cross-links may be introduced to gelatine. In one embodiment, transglutaminase is used to link lysine to glutamine residues; in one embodiment, glutaraldehyde is used to link lysine to lysine, in one embodiment, tannins are used to link lysine residues.

The gelatine can also be further hydrolysed to smaller fragments of down to 3000 g/mol.

On cooling a gelatine solution, collagen like helices may be formed.

Other hydrocolloids may also comprise helix structures such as collagen like helices. Gelatine may form helix structures.

In one embodiment, the cured adhesive comprising hydrocolloid comprises helix structures. In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a low strength gelatine, such as a gelatine having a gel strength of 30 to 125 Bloom.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a medium strength gelatine, such as a gelatine having a gel strength of 125 to 180 Bloom.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a high strength gelatine, such as a gelatine having a gel strength of 180 to 300 Bloom.

In a preferred embodiment, the gelatine is preferably originating from one or more sources from the group consisting of mammal, bird species, such as from cow, pig, horse, fowl, and/or from scales, skin of fish.

In one embodiment, urea may be added to the adhesives according to the present invention. The inventors have found that the addition of even small amounts of urea causes denaturation of the gelatin, which can slow down the gelling, which might be desired in some embodiments. The addition of urea might also lead to a softening of the product.

The inventors have found that the carboxylic acid groups in gelatins interact strongly with trivalent and tetravalent ions, for example aluminium salts. This is especially true for type B gelatines which contain more carboxylic acid groups than type A gelatines.

The present inventors have found that in some embodiments, curing/drying of adhesives according to the present invention including gelatin should not start off at very high temperatures.

The inventors have found that starting the curing at low temperatures may lead to stronger products. Without being bound to any particular theory, it is assumed by the inventors that starting curing at high temperatures may lead to an impenetrable outer shell of the adhesive which hinders water from underneath to get out.

Surprisingly, the adhesives according to the present invention including gelatines are very heat resistant. The present inventors have found that in some embodiments the cured adhesives can sustain temperatures up to 300°C without degradation. Pectin

Pectin is a heterogeneous grouping of acidic structural polysaccharides, found in fruit and vegetables which form acid-stable gels.

Generally, pectins do not possess exact structures, instead it may contain up to 17 different monosaccharides and over 20 types of different linkages.

D-galacturonic acid residues form most of the molecules.

Gel strength increases with increasing Ca2+ concentration but reduces with temperature and acidity increase (pH < 3).

Pectin may form helix structures.

The gelling ability of the di-cations is similar to that found with alginates (Mg2+ is much less than for Ca2+, Sr2+ being less than for Ba2+).

Alginate

Alginates are scaffolding polysaccharides produced by brown seaweeds.

Alginates are linear unbranched polymers containing β-(1 ,4)-linked D-mannuronic acid (M) and a-(1 ,4)-linked L-guluronic acid (G) residues. Alginate may also be a bacterial alginate, such as which are additionally O-acetylated. Alginates are not random copolymers but, according to the source algae, consist of blocks of similar and strictly alternating residues (that is, MM MM MM, GGGGGG and GMGMGMGM), each of which have different conformational preferences and behavior. Alginates may be prepared with a wide range of average molecular weights (50 - 100000 residues). The free carboxylic acids have a water molecule H30+ firmly hydrogen bound to carboxylate. Ca2+ ions can replace this hydrogen bonding, zipping guluronate, but not mannuronate, chains together

stoichiometrically in a so-called egg-box like conformation. Recombinant epimerases with different specificities may be used to produce designer alginates.

Alginate may form helix structures. Carraqeenan

Carrageenan is a collective term for scaffolding polysaccharides prepared by alkaline extraction (and modification) from red seaweed.

Carrageenans are linear polymers of about 25,000 galactose derivatives with regular but imprecise structures, dependent on the source and extraction conditions.

K-carrageenan (kappa-carrageenan) is produced by alkaline elimination from μ- carrageenan isolated mostly from the tropical seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii (also known as Eucheuma cottonii). i-carrageenan (iota-carrageenan) is produced by alkaline elimination from v-carrageenan isolated mostly from the Philippines seaweed Eucheuma denticulatum (also called Spinosum). λ-carrageenan (lambda-carrageenan) (isolated mainly from Gigartina pistillata or

Chondrus crispus) is converted into θ-carrageenan (theta-carrageenan) by alkaline elimination, but at a much slower rate than causes the production of ι-carrageenan and κ- carrageenan.

The strongest gels of κ-carrageenan are formed with K+ rather than Li+, Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+, or Sr2+.

All carrageenans may form helix structures. Gum arabic

Gum arabic is a complex and variable mixture of arabinogalactan oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and glycoproteins. Gum arabic consists of a mixture of lower relative molecular mass polysaccharide and higher molecular weight hydroxyproline-rich glycoprotein with a wide variability.

Gum arabic has a simultaneous presence of hydrophilic carbohydrate and hydrophobic protein. Xanthan gum

Xanthan gum is a microbial desiccation-resistant polymer prepared e.g. by aerobic submerged fermentation from Xanthomonas campestris.

Xanthan gum is an anionic polyelectrolyte with a β-(1 ,4)-D-glucopyranose glucan (as cellulose) backbone with side chains of -(3,1 )-a-linked D-mannopyranose-(2,1 )-3-D- glucuronic acid-(4,1 )-3-D-mannopyranose on alternating residues.

Xanthan gums natural state has been proposed to be bimolecular antiparallel double helices. A conversion between the ordered double helical conformation and the single more-flexible extended chain may take place at between 40 °C - 80 °C. Xanthan gums may form helix structures.

Xanthan gums may contain cellulose.

Cellulose derivatives

An example of a cellulose derivative is carboxymethylcellulose.

Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is a chemically modified derivative of cellulose formed by its reaction with alkali and chloroacetic acid.

The CMC structure is based on the β-(1 ,4)-D-glucopyranose polymer of cellulose.

Different preparations may have different degrees of substitution, but it is generally in the range 0.6 - 0.95 derivatives per monomer unit.

Agar agar

Agar agar is a scaffolding polysaccharide prepared from the same family of red seaweeds (Rhodophycae) as the carrageenans. It is commercially obtained from species of Gelidium and Gracilariae.

Agar agar consists of a mixture of agarose and agaropectin. Agarose is a linear polymer, of relative molecular mass (molecular weight) about 120,000, based on the -(1 ,3)-3-D- galactopyranose-(1 ,4)-3,6-anhydro-a-L-galactopyranose unit. Agaropectin is a heterogeneous mixture of smaller molecules that occur in lesser amounts.

Agar agar may form helix structures. Arabinoxylan

Arabinoxylans are naturally found in the bran of grasses (Graminiae).

Arabinoxylans consist of a-L-arabinofuranose residues attached as branch-points to β- (1 ,4)-linked D-xylopyranose polymeric backbone chains.

Arabinoxylan may form helix structures.

Cellulose

Cellulose is a scaffolding polysaccharide found in plants as microfibrils (2-20 nm diameter and 100 - 40 000 nm long). Cellulose is mostly prepared from wood pulp. Cellulose is also produced in a highly hydrated form by some bacteria (for example, Acetobacter xylinum).

Cellulose is a linear polymer of β-(1 ,4)-D-glucopyranose units in 4C1 conformation. There are four crystalline forms, Ια, Ιβ, II and III.

Cellulose derivatives may be methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxyethyl methylcellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose.

Curdlan

Curdlan is a polymer prepared commercially from a mutant strain of Alcaligenes faecalis var. myxogenes. Curdlan (curdlan gum) is a moderate relative molecular mass, unbranched linear 1 ,3 β-D glucan with no side-chains.

Curdlan may form helix structures. Curdlan gum is insoluble in cold water but aqueous suspensions plasticize and briefly dissolve before producing reversible gels on heating to around 55 'Ό. Heating at higher temperatures produces more resilient irreversible gels, which then remain on cooling.

Scleroglucan is also a 1 ,3 β-D glucan but has additional 1 ,6 β-links that confer solubility under ambient conditions.

Gellan

Gellan gum is a linear tetrasaccharide 4)-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(a-1 ,3)-D-glucopyranosyl-(3- 1 ,4)-D-glucuronopyranosyl-(3-1 ,4)-D-glucopyranosyl-(3-1 , with 0(2) L-glyceryl and 0(6) acetyl substituents on the 3-linked glucose.

Gellan may form helix structures. β-Glucan β-Glucans occur in the bran of grasses (Gramineae). β-Glucans consist of linear unbranched polysaccharides of linked β-(1 ,3)- and β-(1 ,4)-D- glucopyranose units in a non-repeating but non-random order.

Guar gum

Guar gum (also called guaran) is a reserve polysaccharide (seed flour) extracted from the seed of the leguminous shrub Cyamopsis tetragonoloba.

Guar gum is a galactomannana similar to locust bean gum consisting of a (1 ,4)-linked β- D-mannopyranose backbone with branch points from their 6-positions linked to a-D- galactose (that is, 1 ,6-linked-a-D-galactopyranose).

Guar gum is made up of non-ionic polydisperse rod-shaped polymer.

Unlike locust bean gum, it does not form gels.

Locust bean gum Locust bean gum (also called Carob bean gum and Carubin) is a reserve polysaccharide (seed flour) extracted from the seed (kernels) of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua).

Locust bean gum is a galactomannana similar to guar gum consisting of a (1 ,4)-linked β- D-mannopyranose backbone with branch points from their 6-positions linked to a-D- galactose (that is, 1 ,6-linked a-D-galactopyranose).

Locust bean gum is polydisperse consisting of non-ionic molecules.

Starch

Starch consists of two types of molecules, amylose (normally 20-30%) and amylopectin (normally 70-80%). Both consist of polymers of a-D-glucose units in the 4C1

conformation. In amylose these are linked -(1 ,4)-, with the ring oxygen atoms all on the same side, whereas in amylopectin about one residue in every twenty or so is also linked - (1 ,6)- forming branch-points. The relative proportions of amylose to amylopectin and - (1 ,6)- branch-points both depend on the source of the starch. The starch may derive from the source of corn (maize), wheat, potato, tapioca and rice. Amylopectin (without amylose) can be isolated from 'waxy' maize starch whereas amylose (without amylopectin) is best isolated after specifically hydrolyzing the amylopectin with pullulanase.

Amylose may form helix structures.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a functional derivative of starch such as cross-linked, oxidized, acetylated, hydroxypropylated and partially hydrolyzed starch.

In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatine and the at least one other hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, starch, alginate, agar agar, carrageenan, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose, arabinoxylan, cellulose, curdlan, β-glucan.

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatine and the at least other hydrocolloid is pectin. In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatine and the at least other hydrocolloid is alginate.

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatine and the at least other hydrocolloid is carboxymethylcellulose.

In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive according to the present invention comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatine and wherein the gelatine is present in the aqueous adhesive in an amount of 10 to 95 wt.-%, such as 20 to 80 wt.-%, such as 30 to 70 wt.-%, such as 40 to 60 wt.-%, based on the weight of the hydrocolloids.

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein the one hydrocolloid and the at least other hydrocolloid have complementary charges.

In one embodiment, the one hydrocolloid is one or more of gelatine or gum arabic having complementary charges from one or more hydrocolloid(s) selected from the group of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, xanthan gum or carboxymethylcellulose.

In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive according to the present invention comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein one hydrocolloid is gelatine and wherein the gelatine is present in the aqueous adhesive in an amount of 10 to 95 wt.-%, such as 20 to 80 wt.-%, such as 30 to 70 wt.-%, such as 40 to 60 wt.-%, based on the weight of the hydrocolloids. In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least two hydrocolloids, wherein the one hydrocolloid and the at least other hydrocolloid have complementary charges.

In one embodiment, the one hydrocolloid is one or more of gelatine or gum arabic having complementary charges from one or more hydrocolloid(s) selected from the group of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, xanthan gum or carboxymethylcellulose.

In one embodiment, the adhesive is capable of curing at a temperature of not more than 95 °C, such as 5-95 °C, such as 10-80 °C, such as 20-60 °C, such as 40-50 °C.

The curing process may commence immediately after application of the adhesive to the fibres. The curing is defined as a process whereby the adhesive undergoes a physical and/or chemical reaction which in case of a chemical reaction usually increases the molecular weight of the compounds in the adhesive and thereby increases the viscosity of the adhesive, usually until the adhesive reaches a solid state.

In one embodiment the curing process comprises cross-linking and/or water inclusion as crystal water.

In one embodiment the cured adhesive contains crystal water that may decrease in content and raise in content depending on the prevailing conditions of temperature, pressure and humidity.

In one embodiment the curing process comprises a drying process.

In one embodiment the curing process comprises drying by pressure. The pressure may be applied by blowing air or gas through/over the mixture of mineral fibres and adhesive. The blowing process may be accompanied by heating or cooling or it may be at ambient temperature.

In one embodiment the curing process takes place in a humid environment.

The humid environment may have a relative humidity RH of 60-99%, such as 70-95%, such as 80-92%. The curing in a humid environment may be followed by curing or drying to obtain a state of the prevalent humidity.

In one embodiment the curing is performed in oxygen-depleted surroundings.

Without wanting to be bound by any particular theory, the applicant believes that performing the curing in an oxygen-depleted surrounding is particularly beneficial when the adhesive includes an enzyme because it increases the stability of the enzyme component in some embodiments, in particular of the transglutaminase enzyme, and thereby improves the crosslinking efficiency. In one embodiment, the curing process is therefore performed in an inert atmosphere, in particular in an atmosphere of an inert gas, like nitrogen.

In some embodiments, in particular in embodiments in which the adhesive includes phenolics, in particular tannins oxidizing agents can be added. Oxidising agents as additives can serve to increase the oxidising rate of the phenolics in particular tannins. One example is the enzyme tyrosinase which oxidizes phenols to hydroxy- phenols/quinones and therefore accelerates the adhesive forming reaction.

In another embodiment, the oxidising agent is oxygen, which is supplied to the adhesive. In one embodiment, the curing is performed in oxygen-enriched surroundings.

In one embodiment, the adhesive is not crosslinked.

In an alternative embodiment, the adhesive is crosslinked.

In one embodiment, the aqueous adhesive according to the present invention is not a thermoset adhesive.

A thermosetting composition is in a soft solid or viscous liquid state, preferably comprising a prepolymer, preferably comprising a resin that changes irreversibly into an infusible, insoluble polymer network by curing. Curing is typically induced by the action of heat, whereby typically temperatures above 95 'Ό are needed.

A cured thermosetting resin is called a thermoset or a thermosetting plastic/ polymer - when used as the bulk material in a polymer composite, they are referred to as the thermoset polymer matrix.

In one embodiment, the aqueous adhesive according to the present invention does not contain a poly(meth)acrylic acid, a salt of a poly(meth)acrylic acid or an ester of a poly(meth)acrylic acid.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or modified biopolymer.

Biopolymers are polymers produced by living organisms. Biopolymers may contain monomeric units that are covalently bonded to form larger structures.

There are three main classes of biopolymers, classified according to the monomeric units used and the structure of the biopolymer formed: Polynucleotides (RNA and DNA), which are long polymers composed of 13 or more nucleotide monomers; Polypeptides, such as proteins, which are polymers of amino acids; Polysaccharides, such as linearly bonded polymeric carbohydrate structures. Polysaccharides may be linear or branched; they are typically joined with glycosidic bonds. In addition, many saccharide units can undergo various chemical modifications, and may form parts of other molecules, such as glycoproteins.

In one embodiment, the at least one hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or modified biopolymer with a polydispersity index regarding molecular mass distribution of 1 , such as 0.9 to 1 .

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises proteins from animal sources, including collagen, gelatine and hydrolysed gelatine, and the adhesive further comprises at least one phenol and/or quinone containing compound, such as tannin selected from one or more components from the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins

(proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin originating from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and fringe cups.

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises proteins from animal sources, including collagen, gelatine and hydrolysed gelatine, and wherein the adhesive further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1 ), thiol oxidase (EC 1 .8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1 .14.18.1 ), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase, and phenoloxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1 .4.3.13), and peroxidase (EC 1 .1 1 .1 .7).

In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive according to the present invention is

formaldehyde free.

For the purpose of the present application, the term "formaldehyde free" is defined to characterize a mineral wool product where the emission is below 5 μg/m ² /h of

formaldehyde from the mineral wool product, preferably below 3 μg/m ² /h. Preferably, the test is carried out in accordance with ISO 16000 for testing aldehyde emissions.

A surprising advantage of embodiments of mineral wool products according to the present invention is that they show self-healing properties. After being exposed to very harsh conditions when mineral wool products loose a part of their strength, the mineral wool products according to the present invention can regain a part of, the whole of or even exceed the original strength. In one embodiment, the aged strength is at least 80%, such as at least 90%, such as at least 100%, such as at least 130%, such as at least 150% of the unaged strength. This is in contrast to conventional mineral wool products for which the loss of strength after being exposed to harsh environmental conditions is irreversible. While not wanting to be bound to any particular theory, the present inventors believe that this surprising property in mineral wool products according to the present invention is due to the complex nature of the bonds formed in the network of the cured adhesive, such as the protein crosslinked by the phenol and/or quinone containing compound or crosslinked by an enzyme, which also includes quaternary structures and hydrogen bonds and allows bonds in the network to be established after returning to normal environmental conditions. For an insulation product, which when e.g. used as a roof insulation can be exposed to very high temperatures in the summer, this is an important advantage for the long term stability of the product.

In one embodiment, the adhesive consists essentially of

at least one hydrocolloid;

optionally at least one oil;

optionally at least one pH-adjuster;

optionally at least one crosslinker;

optionally at least one anti-fouling agent;

optionally at least one anti-swelling agent;

water.

In one embodiment, the at least one oil is a non-emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one oil is an emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one oil is a plant-based oil.

In one embodiment, the at least one crosslinker is tannin selected from one or more components from the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins

(proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin originating from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and fringe cups.

In one embodiment, the at least one crosslinker is an enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1 ), thiol oxidase (EC 1 .8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1 .14.18.1 ), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase, and phenoloxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1 .4.3.13), and

peroxidase (EC 1 .1 1 .1 .7).

In one embodiment, the at least one anti-swelling agent is tannic acid and/or tannins.

In one embodiment, the at least one anti-fouling agent is an antimicrobial agent.

Antimicrobial agents may be benzoic acid, propionic acid, sodium benzoate, sorbic acid, and potassium sorbate to inhibit the outgrowth of both bacterial and fungal cells. However, natural biopreservatives may be used. Chitosan is regarded as being antifungal and antibacterial. The most frequently used biopreservatives for antimicrobial are lysozyme and nisin. Common other biopreservatives that may be used are bacteriocins, such as lacticin and pediocin and antimicrobial enzymes, such as chitinase and glucose oxidase. Also, the use of the enzyme lactoperoxidase (LPS) presents antifungal and antiviral activities. Natural antimicrobial agents may also be used, such as tannins, rosemary, and garlic essential oils, oregano, lemon grass, or cinnamon oil at different concentrations.

In one aspect of the invention, there is provided a mineral wool product comprising a multiple of lamellae, such as a sandwich panel core, said product comprising

- a plurality of lamellae cut from a mineral wool web, and bonded together by applying an adhesive on the surfaces of two adjacent lamellae to form a web-like product, wherein the adhesive comprises at least one hydrocolloid.

In this aspect of the invention any of the features discussed above with respect to the adhesive may be applied.

The adhesive process

In one embodiment, after application of the adhesive the elements are subjected to pressure during bonding and preferably the total time for application of the adhesive and subjection to pressure is not more than 120 seconds, such as 60 seconds, such as 30 seconds, such as 20 seconds.

In one embodiment, the elements can be moved along stationary nozzles or stationary panels can be sprayed with the use of movable nozzles or applied with rollers. Spraying time and adhesive bonding time is 120 seconds maximum. Elements sprayed with the adhesive are pressed together.

In one embodiment, the adhesive can be applied to just one of the surfaces to be bonded but it may be applied to both.

In one embodiment, the protein component of the adhesive can be applied to a first surface to be bonded and the phenol and/or quinone containing compound and/or at least one enzyme can be applied to a second surface to be bonded and then the first and second surfaces are contacted with each other.

In one embodiment, the amount of cured adhesive is 10-1000 g/m ² surface, such as 50- 500 g/m ² surface, such as 100-400 g/m ² surface.

It is advantageous to achieve a balanced penetration of the adhesive into deeper layers of the element; such a connection would be more durable than a connection made by another method. Generally the adhesive does not penetrate more than 2 mm into the element.

In one embodiment, the adhesive is applied by means of a spraying, rolling, brushing, curtain painting, a sponge or a soft sponge roll.

Examples

In the following examples, several adhesives which fall under the definition of the present invention were prepared and compared to adhesives according to the prior art.

Adhesives according to the prior art

The following properties were determined for the adhesives according the prior art. Reagents

Silane (Momentive VS-142) was supplied by Momentive and was calculated as 100% for simplicity. All other components were supplied in high purity by Sigma-Aldrich and were assumed anhydrous for simplicity unless stated otherwise. Adhesive component solids content - definition

The content of each of the components in a given adhesive solution before curing is based on the anhydrous mass of the components. The following formula can be used:

binder component A solids (g) + binder component B solids (g) H—

Binder component solids content (%) = — x 100%

total weight of mixture (g)

Adhesive solids - definition and procedure

The content of adhesive after curing is termed "adhesive solids".

Disc-shaped stone wool samples (diameter: 5 cm; height 1 cm) were cut out of stone wool and heat-treated at 580 'Ό for at least 30 minutes to remove all organics. The solids of the adhesive mixture (see below for mixing examples) were measured by distributing a sample of the adhesive mixture (approx. 2 g) onto a heat treated stone wool disc in a tin foil container. The weight of the tin foil container containing the stone wool disc was weighed before and directly after addition of the adhesive mixture. Two such adhesive mixture loaded stone wool discs in tin foil containers were produced and they were then heated at 200 'Ό for 1 hour. After cooling and storing at room temperature for 10 minutes, the samples were weighed and the adhesive solids were calculated as an average of the two results. A adhesive with the desired adhesive solids could then be produced by diluting with the required amount of water and 10% aq. silane (Momentive VS-142).

Reaction loss - definition

The reaction loss is defined as the difference between the adhesive component solids content and the adhesive solids.

Mechanical strength studies (bar tests) - procedure

The mechanical strength of the adhesives was tested in a bar test. For each adhesive, 16 bars were manufactured from a mixture of the adhesive and stone wool shots from the stone wool spinning production. The shots are particles which have the same melt composition as the stone wool fibers, and the shots are normally considered a waste product from the spinning process. The shots used for the bar composition have a size of 0.25-0.50 mm.

A 15% adhesive solids adhesive solution containing 0.5% silane (Momentive VS-142) of adhesive solids was obtained as described above under "adhesive solids". A sample of this adhesive solution (16.0 g) was mixed well with shots (80.0 g). The resulting mixture was then divided evenly into four slots in a heat resistant silicone form for making small bars (4x5 slots per form; slot top dimension: length = 5.6 cm, width = 2.5 cm; slot bottom dimension: length = 5.3 cm, width = 2.2 cm; slot height = 1 .1 cm). The mixtures placed in the slots were then pressed hard with a suitably sized flat metal bar to generate even bar surfaces. 16 bars from each adhesive were made in this fashion. The resulting bars were then cured at 200 °C for 1 h. After cooling to room temperature, the bars were carefully taken out of the containers. Eight of the 16 bars were aged in an autoclave (15 min / 120 °C / 1 .2 bar).

After drying for 1 -2 days, all bars were then broken in a 3 point bending test (test speed: 10.0 mm/min; rupture level: 50%; nominal strength: 30 N/mm ² ; support distance: 40 mm; max deflection 20 mm; nominal e-module 10000 N/mm ² ) on a Bent Tram machine to investigate their mechanical strengths. The bars were placed with the "top face" up (i.e. the face with the dimensions length = 5.6 cm, width = 2.5 cm) in the machine.

Loss of ignition (LOI) of bars

The loss of ignition (LOI) of bars was measured in small tin foil containers by treatment at 580 'Ό. For each measurement, a tin foil container was first heat-treated at 580 °C for 15 minutes to remove all organics. The tin foil container was allowed to cool to ambient temperature, and was then weighed. Four bars (usually after being broken in the 3 point bending test) were placed into the tin foil container and the ensemble was weighed. The tin foil container containing bars was then heat-treated at 580 'Ό for 30 minutes, allowed to cool to ambient temperature, and finally weighed again. The LOI was then calculated using the following formula: Weight of bars before heat treatment (g)— Weight of bars after heat treatment (g)

Weight of bars before heat treatment (g)

Reference adhesives from the prior art prepared as comparative examples

Adhesive example, reference adhesive A (phenol-formaldehyde resin modified with urea, a PUF-resol)

A phenol-formaldehyde resin is prepared by reacting 37% aq. formaldehyde (606 g) and phenol (189 g) in the presence of 46% aq. potassium hydroxide (25.5 g) at a reaction temperature of 84 °C preceded by a heating rate of approximately 1 'Ό per minute. The reaction is continued at 84 °C until the acid tolerance of the resin is 4 and most of the phenol is converted. Urea (241 g) is then added and the mixture is cooled.

The acid tolerance (AT) expresses the number of times a given volume of a adhesive can be diluted with acid without the mixture becoming cloudy (the adhesive precipitates). Sulfuric acid is used to determine the stop criterion in a adhesive production and an acid tolerance lower than 4 indicates the end of the adhesive reaction. To measure the AT, a titrant is produced from diluting 2.5 mL cone, sulfuric acid (>99 %) with 1 L ion exchanged water. 5 mL of the adhesive to be investigated is then titrated at room temperature with this titrant while keeping the adhesive in motion by manually shaking it; if preferred, use a magnetic stirrer and a magnetic stick. Titration is continued until a slight cloud appears in the adhesive, which does not disappear when the adhesive is shaken.

The acid tolerance (AT) is calculated by dividing the amount of acid used for the titration (mL) with the amount of sample (mL):

AT = (Used titration volume (mL)) / (Sample volume (mL))

Using the urea-modified phenol-formaldehyde resin obtained, a adhesive is made by addition of 25% aq. ammonia (90 mL) and ammonium sulfate (13.2 g) followed by water (1 .30 kg). The adhesive solids were then measured as described above and the mixture was diluted with the required amount of water and silane (Momentive VS-142) for mechanical strength studies (15% adhesive solids solution, 0.5% silane of adhesive solids). Adhesives according to the present invention

The following properties were determined for the adhesives according the present invention.

Reagents

Gelatines (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 and 180 bloom; Imagel LB, type B, 122 bloom) were obtained from Gelita AG. Tannorouge chestnut tree tannin was obtained from Brouwland bvba. Agar agar (05039), gellan gum (P8169), pectin from citrus peel (P9135), sodium alginate from brown algae (A0682), sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (419303), soluble starch (S9765), and sodium hydroxide were obtained from Sigma- Aldrich. For simplicity, these reagents were considered completely pure and anhydrous.

Adhesive component solids content - definition

The content of each of the components in a given adhesive solution before curing is based on the anhydrous mass of the components. The following formula can be used:

binder component A solids (g) + binder component B solids (g) H—

Binder component solids content (%) = — x 100%

total weight of mixture (g)

Mechanical strength studies (bar tests) - procedure

The mechanical strength of the adhesives was tested in a bar test. For each adhesive, 8- 16 bars were manufactured from a mixture of the adhesive and stone wool shots from the stone wool spinning production. The shots are particles which have the same melt composition as the stone wool fibers, and the shots are normally considered a waste product from the spinning process. The shots used for the bar composition have a size of 0.25-0.50 mm.

A adhesive solution was obtained as described in the examples below. For comparatively slower setting adhesives, a sample of the adhesive solution (16.0 g for adhesives with 10- 15% adhesive component solids; 32.0 g for adhesives with 5% adhesive component solids) was mixed well with shots (80.0 g). The resulting mixture was then divided evenly into four slots in a heat resistant silicone form for making small bars (4x5 slots per form; slot top dimension: length = 5.6 cm, width = 2.5 cm; slot bottom dimension: length = 5.3 cm, width = 2.2 cm; slot height = 1 .1 cm). For comparatively faster setting adhesives, a sample of the adhesive solution (8.0 g for adhesives with 10-15% adhesive component solids and 16.0 g for adhesives with 5% adhesive component solids) was mixed well with shots (40.0 g, pre-heated to 35-40 °C before use), and the resulting mixture was then divided evenly into two slots only. During the manufacture of each bar, the mixtures placed in the slots were pressed as required and then evened out with a plastic spatula to generate an even bar surface. 8-16 bars from each adhesive were made in this fashion. The resulting bars were then cured at room temperature for 1 -2 days or first cured for 15 minutes in an oven at the temperatures listed in the tables followed by curing for 1 -2 days at room temperature. If still not sufficiently cured after that time, the bars were cured for 1 day at 35 'Ό. The bars were then carefully taken out of the containers, turned upside down and left for a day at room temperature to cure completely. Half of the 8-16 bars were aged in an autoclave (15 min / 120 'Ό / 1 .2 bar).

After drying for 1 -2 days, all bars were then broken in a 3 point bending test (test speed: 10.0 mm/min; rupture level: 50%; nominal strength: 30 N/mm ² ; support distance: 40 mm; max deflection 20 mm; nominal e-module 10000 N/mm ² ) on a Bent Tram machine to investigate their mechanical strengths. The bars were placed with the "top face" up (i.e. the face with the dimensions length = 5.6 cm, width = 2.5 cm) in the machine.

Loss of ignition (LOI) of bars

The loss of ignition (LOI) of bars was measured in small tin foil containers by treatment at 580 'Ό. For each measurement, a tin foil container was first heat-treated at 580 °C for 15 minutes to remove all organics. The tin foil container was allowed to cool to ambient temperature, and was then weighed. Four bars (usually after being broken in the 3 point bending test) were placed into the tin foil container and the ensemble was weighed. The tin foil container containing bars was then heat-treated at 580 'Ό for 30 minutes, allowed to cool to ambient temperature, and finally weighed again. The LOI was then calculated using the following formula: Weight of bars before heat treatment (g)— Weight of bars after heat treatment (g)

Weight of bars before heat treatment (g)

Adhesives according to the present invention

Adhesive example, entry 1

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 7.5 g) in water (42.5 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 5.1 ). The resulting solution was then used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 3

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 180 bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 5.2). The resulting solution was then used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 5

A mixture of gelatine (Imagel LB, type B, 122 bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 5.1 ). The resulting solution was then used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 7

To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (2.63 g) portion-wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5- 1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained (pH 8.4). The resulting solution was then used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 8 To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added soluble starch (2.63 g) portion-wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5-1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained (pH 6.4). The resulting solution was then used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 9

To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added agar agar (2.63 g) portion- wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5-1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained. A portion of the above agar agar solution (19.6 g, thus efficiently 0.98 g agar agar and 18.6 g water) was then added and stirring was continued at 50 °C for 5 min further (pH 5.3). The resulting solution was then used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 10

To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added gellan gum (2.63 g) portion- wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5-1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained. A portion of the above gellan gum solution (19.6 g, thus efficiently 0.98 g gellan gum and 18.6 g water) was then added and stirring was continued at 50 °C for 5 min further (pH 5.3). The resulting solution was then used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 11

To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added pectin (2.63 g) portion-wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5-1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained. A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained. A portion of the above pectin solution (19.6 g, thus efficiently 0.98 g pectin and 18.6 g water) was then added and stirring was continued at 50 °C for 5 min further (pH 4.8). The resulting solution was then used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 12

To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added sodium alginate (2.63 g) portion-wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5-1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained. A portion of the above sodium alginate solution (19.6 g, thus efficiently 0.98 g sodium alginate and 18.6 g water) was then added and stirring was continued at 50 °C for 5 min further (pH 5.3). The resulting solution was then used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 13

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tree tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for 5-10 min further, yielding a deep red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 8.00 g) in water (72.0 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 4.8). 1 M NaOH (3.50 g) was then added (pH 9.3) followed by a portion of the above chestnut tree tannin solution (3.60 g; thus efficiently 0.80 g chestnut tree tannin). After stirring for 1 -2 minutes further at 50 °C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 9.2) was used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 14 To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tree tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for 5-10 min further, yielding a deep red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 4.9). 1 M NaOH (4.00 g) was then added (pH 9.1 ) followed by a portion of the above chestnut tree tannin solution (4.50 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g chestnut tree tannin). After stirring for 1 -2 minutes further at 50 °C, the resulting brown mixture (pH

9.1 ) was used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 17

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tree tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for 5-10 min further, yielding a deep red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 180 bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 4.8). 1 M NaOH (3.50 g) was then added (pH 9.2) followed by a portion of the above chestnut tree tannin solution (4.50 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g chestnut tree tannin). After stirring for 1 -2 minutes further at 50 °C, the resulting brown mixture (pH

9.2) was used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 19

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tree tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for 5-10 min further, yielding a deep red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatine (Imagel LB, type B, 122 bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 4.7). 1 M NaOH (3.50 g) was then added (pH 9.2) followed by a portion of the above chestnut tree tannin solution (4.50 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g chestnut tree tannin). After stirring for 1 -2 minutes further at 50 °C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 9.2) was used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 21

To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added agar agar (2.63 g) portion- wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5-1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained.

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tree tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for 5-10 min further, yielding a deep red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 4.6). 1 M NaOH (4.00 g) was then added (pH 9.1 ) followed by a portion of the above chestnut tree tannin solution (4.50 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g chestnut tree tannin) and then a portion of the above agar agar solution (20.0 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g agar agar). After stirring for 1 -2 minutes further at 50 °C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 8.8) was used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 22

To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added pectin (2.63 g) portion-wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5-1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained.

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tree tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for 5-10 min further, yielding a deep red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 4.6). 1 M NaOH (4.50 g) was then added (pH 9.6) followed by a portion of the above chestnut tree tannin solution (4.50 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g chestnut tree tannin) and then a portion of the above pectin solution (20.0 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g pectin). After stirring for 1 -2 minutes further at 50 °C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 8.9) was used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 23

To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added sodium alginate (2.63 g) portion-wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5-1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained.

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tree tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for 5-10 min further, yielding a deep red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 4.6). 1 M NaOH (4.00 g) was then added (pH 9.2) followed by a portion of the above chestnut tree tannin solution (4.50 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g chestnut tree tannin) and then a portion of the above sodium alginate solution (20.0 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g sodium alginate). After stirring for 1 -2 minutes further at 50 °C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 9.0) was used in the subsequent experiments.

Adhesive example, entry 24

To water (50.0 g) stirred vigorously at 85 °C was added soluble starch (2.63 g) portion-wise over approx. 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for 0.5-1 h further at 85 °C until a clear solution was obtained.

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tree tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for 5-10 min further, yielding a deep red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatine (Speisegelatine, type A, porcine, 120 bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50 °C for approx. 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained (pH 4.8). 1 M NaOH (4.00 g) was then added (pH 9.1 ) followed by a portion of the above chestnut tree tannin solution (4.50 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g chestnut tree tannin) and then a portion of the above soluble starch solution (20.0 g; thus efficiently 1 .00 g soluble starch). After stirring for 1 -2 minutes further at 50 °C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 8.8) was used in the subsequent experiments.

TABLE 1-1 : Reference adhesive

TABLE 1-2: Various hydrocolloids

Of hydrocolloid(s). ^{1 J} Of hydrocolloid(s) + crosslinker

As can be seen from comparing the results in Table 1 .1 with Tables 1 .2 and 1 .3, the adhesives used in the present invention require lower temperatures for curing. The reference adhesive requires temperatures of 200 ^Q C for curing, while adhesives 1 to 24 cure at 55 ^Q C and below, typically at ambient temperature. This means that the adhesives of the present invention are capable of being cured on-site or at the manufacturing or process stage.