In the corrugated cardboard industry, starch adhesives are commonly used, because they are easy to produce and apply. In addition, starch adhesives provide an economical method for bonding paper and cardboard and it is good for the environment. In some methods, liquid boric acid or hydrogen borate is used in the adhesive production process, and this can provide a number of benefits. Let’s check out some of the good things about this process.
What is Boric Acid?
Hydrogen borate is an acid made from boron. It is used in a wide range of commercial applications today, such as:
* Insecticide
* Preservative
* Agriculture
* Fireworks
* Nuclear Energy
* Many industrial applicatioadditionns
Borates react with some substances in different ways and this is why they are used to enhance the properties of starch glue.
Why Borates for Adhesives?
Liquid borates help to improve tack. It makes the adhesive stickier so it will cling to materials better. In addition, borates give glue better rheology. This means the adhesive flows more smoothly and is able to soak into materials better.
Borates are made for starch type glues because they mix together well and improve the overall bonding ability of the adhesive.
Benefits of Starch Glue with Liquid Boric Acid
When you add liquid borates to starch glue, you can expect to receive these benefits:
* Viscosity – borates help starch molecules to cross link and this increases the viscosity, which makes the adhesive thicker.
* Water solubility – starch glues are water soluble and when borates are added, the glue holds moisture better.
* Gel point is increased – gel point is the moment a liquid becomes a gel. In other words, starch adhesives will become solid and set up quicker when borates are added to the solution.
* Dust elimination – some processes use powdered borates in the mixing process and this can create a great deal of dust, and one may need to invest in an expensive dust removal system. Dust may be a hazard to the environment as well as workers, and liquid borates eliminate this problem. Dust prevention saves money while creating a safer workplace.
Uses
There are many uses for starch adhesives (containing liquid boric acid) besides the corrugated cardboard industry. These glues are used to create gummed paper and tape, paper bags, laminated board products and many other things. When you shop for the best starch adhesives, look for a company offering a wide range of products, designed to meet all your needs. Also, check to be sure the materials are eco friendly.
