The world’s first fully-certified biodegradable, shaped hot melt adhesive has been developed by Power Adhesives.
Fully tested and certified, tecbond 214B is designed to completely break down in the continued presence of oxygen, leaving behind only non-harmful products and no microplastics. Made with 44% bio-based materials, the adhesive is the first of its kind.
Based on Power Adhesives best-selling tecbond 214 packaging adhesive, tecbond 214B is the first biodegradable adhesive the company has produced, as it looks to increase the environmental credentials of its product offering.
The adhesive offers the same performance and characteristics as the standard adhesive, and is available globally. With its high level of tack and fast setting speeds, it provides an almost instant bond once applied and compressed. This enables companies to speed up their packing procedures, improving workflow and output.
Tecbond 214B will start to breakdown upon exposure to oxygen, ultraviolet light and heat. Together, they initiate the accelerated breakdown of long-chain polymers in the adhesive. Once the chains have been broken down, they can then be consumed by micro-organisms in the same way natural waste is consumed. This process leaves behind no harmful products and no microplastics.
Tecbond 214B is certified to ASTM D6400 and EN13432 standards, which relate to biodegradation of solid material by industrial composting, and eco-toxicity in soil upon degradation, respectively. It is also certified to ASTM D6954, the standard guide for exposing and testing plastics that degrade, and ASTM D6866, the standard test to determine the biobased or biogenic carbon content of a sample.
The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Brendan Colgan, described how tecbond 214B was “one of Power Adhesives’ biggest steps forward in sustainable product development.” Mr Colgan went on to state that the company wished to “lead by example in the production and use of biodegradable adhesives.”
The company’s Adhesive Operations Director, Keith Hampson, is excited to finally produce the adhesive after over three years of development and analysis. “The work has included detailed formulation, evaluation, and long-term testing in the laboratory and field.” When asked about how the company has adjusted to manufacture new types of adhesive, Mr. Hampson stated that “two production lines have been modified to produce the new biodegradable adhesive in 12, 15, and 43 mm sizes.”
Tecbond 214B is indirect food contact approved, enabling it to be used in all areas of the food packaging process, from wrap-around cartons and boxes to shipping packages.
Power Adhesives suggests using tecbond 214B with their range of tec glue guns to provide the user with the highest possible output with the least amount of effort.
In order to extend the shelf life of the adhesive, tecbond 214B should be kept in its original packaging, out of direct sunlight and stored below 30°C, until ready to use.
Additionally, tecbond 214B is a non-toxic formulation with no organic solvents or harmful chemicals present, negating the need for users to wear respiratory PPE.
For further technical information, advice, or any questions regarding products mentioned, please contact Power Adhesives on 01268 885800, or email sales@poweradhesives.com.
