Development of a Tannin-Based Adhesive: Study of Hardeners
Description
The wood composite panel industry is a constantly evolving sector that must continuously adapt to consumer needs and regulations regarding volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. Consumers seek products with a low environmental impact and that are safe for health. However, the adhesives used in the manufacture of these panels are made from synthetic resins and fossil-derived materials, some of which, like formaldehyde, are classified as carcinogenic by the World Health Organization.
This project focuses on the development of bio-based adhesives using tannins sourced from the boreal forest. These tannins, extracted and purified in our laboratory, will be studied within an adhesive system. Tannin-based resins can form a cross-linked structure through autocondensation or cross-linking. Although resins obtained by autocondensation are suitable for indoor applications, their resistance to water and swelling is limited. In contrast, resins cured with cross-linking agents demonstrate better mechanical performance. Various hardeners, such as hexamethylenetetramine, tris(hydroxymethyl)nitromethane, glyoxal, glutaraldehyde, and others, will be investigated to assess their reactivity with boreal forest tannins. We will also analyze their performance in composite panels, focusing on water resistance, internal cohesion, and VOC emissions.
Research Field
- Biobased
- Adhesive
- Tannins
- Chemistry
- Wood
- Composite panels
- Materials
Research Supervisor
Véronic Landry
Research Environment
Wood composite panel research consortium
The consortium is a joint initiative of a research team from Université Laval, Université de Québec en Abitibi Témiscamingue, SEREX and with industrial and government partners: FPInnovations, Produits forestiers Arbec, Sacopan, Tafisa, Uniboard, Conseil de l'industrie forestière du Québec, ministère des Ressources naturelles et des Forêts du Québec. The mission of the wood-based composite panel consortium is to contribute to the research and training of highly qualified personnel in three research areas: (1) raw materials, (2) innovative processes and adhesives and (3) products and markets. This project is part of the "products and markets" theme of the consortium. The candidate will work in collaboration with the partners of the research consortium and will be part of the Center for Research on Renewable Materials (CRMR). The members of the CRMR form a multidisciplinary and dynamic team, working for the development of new solid wood products, wood-based composites, wood fiber or lignocellulosic fiber and value-added co-products.
Web Site
Financial Aid Available by Program of Study
Master's Degree in Wood and Biosourced Materials
Program descriptionFinancial Aid Available*
Financial Aid Related to Research Project
$21000 per year for 2 years.
Program-Specific Financial Aid
Graduate Studies Awards
| Milestone |
Amount |
Initial thesis submission OR fast-tracking to a doctorate by the end of the 5th semester
|
$1,000 |
| Total |
$1,000 |
Université Laval: Student Financial Aid
* Amounts shown represent maximum financial aid available. Certain conditions apply. Subject to change without prior notice. For further information, contact sponsoring organizations directly.
Desired Profile
- Chemistry
- Mineral, Metallurgical, and Materials Engineering
- Wood Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
Required Documentation
- Curriculum vitæ
- Student transcript
Application Deadline
March 28, 2025
Find Out More
Véronic Landry
Professeure agrégée
Département des sciences du bois et de la forêt
veronic.landry@sbf.ulaval.ca