Hydroxy Propylated Lignin-Isocyanate Combinations as Bonding Agents for Wood and Cellulosic Fibers

Abstract

Lignin and hydroxy propylated lignin derivatives were reacted with diisocyanates in the presence of cellulose fibers and wood particles. The attachment of lignin and lignin derivates to hydroxyl-rich surfaces of lignocellulosic materials proved to be a convenient way for increasing strength properties of reconstituted fiber and particle materials. Results indicate that hydroxypropylated lignin derivatives are capable of contributing equal or even greater strength increases to relignified fiber composites than do monomeric or polymeric diisocyanates alone. With reinforced fiber mats, it was found that strength properties were virtually unaffected up to a level of approximately 50% replacement of diisocyanates by lignin-based materials. This beneficial contribution by lignin to bonding properties could not be verified for reconstituted wood products, the strength and swelling properties of which suffered in relation to lignin content. Thftse differences are explained with differences in method of adhesive preparation and application. Lignins were obtained from the spent pulping liquor of the Kraft process, and by alkaline extraction of steam exploded Aspen wood chips. These lignins were, for the most part, reacted with propylene oxide.