Preparation, characterization, and application of waterborne lignin-based epoxy resin as eco-friendly wood adhesive.

A series of novel waterborne lignin-based epoxy resin emulsions (WLEPs) were successfully synthesized, and then the WLEPs were cured with polyamide (PA) to give formaldehyde-free wood adhesives with high-performance. The chemical structures and properties of WLEP emulsions were determined. The effects of the emulsifiers on thermal and mechanical properties of the adhesives were investigated, and the potential application of WLEPs in the formulation of plywood were also evaluated.