Water-based and solvent-free adhesives present complex rheological and bonding challenges in industrial applications. Formulations must achieve 2-5 N/cm peel strength while maintaining stability in aqueous systems with viscosities ranging from 1,500-4,000 mPa·s. The critical transition from wet film to solid bond requires precise control of open time (typically 3-10 minutes) and complete curing within manufacturing cycle constraints.

The fundamental challenge lies in achieving robust adhesion properties without volatile organic compounds while preserving processing compatibility and end-use performance.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including polyurethane systems with modified isocyanate-hydroxyl ratios, starch derivatives with polycarboxylic acid thickeners, thermoplastic-thermosetting resin combinations, and castor oil-based polyester polyols. These and other approaches enable manufacturers to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations while maintaining or exceeding the performance benchmarks established by traditional solvent-based adhesives.

1. Water-Based Adhesive Composition with Methacrylic Acid and Modified Nano-Calcium Carbonate for Food Packaging Bags

GUANGDONG DONGFANG YIGE NEW MAT CO LTD, 2024

Environmentally friendly water-based adhesive for food packaging bags, comprising methacrylic acid, butyl methacrylate, vinyl acetate/tertiary carbonate/acrylate copolymer, polyethylene glycol 1000, ammonium persulfate, ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer, modified nano-calcium carbonate, cross-linking agent, emulsifier, and deionized water. The adhesive is prepared by first mixing methacrylic acid,

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2. Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive with Two-Step Preparation Incorporating Alkaline Stabilizer and Water-Absorbing Agent

YANMO CHEMICAL SHANGHAI CO LTD, 2024

Solvent-free polyurethane adhesive with enhanced bonding strength and wear resistance, achieved through a novel preparation method that addresses the conventional limitations of solvent-free polyurethane adhesives. The adhesive is prepared through a two-step process involving a water-absorbing agent and an alkaline stabilizer. The stabilizer absorbs gas generated during isocyanate-water reaction, creating an alkaline environment that promotes curing. The stabilizer's porous structure enables alcohol molecules to penetrate and enhance adhesion. This combination of gas absorption and molecular penetration enables superior bonding performance in solvent-free polyurethane adhesives, particularly in high-friction environments like sports facilities.

3. Transparent Water-Based Adhesive Composition with Starch Derivatives, Polyols, and Polycarboxylic Acid Thickeners

UHU GMBH & CO KG, 2023

Transparent water-based adhesive composition with high storage stability, fast drying, and good bonding properties for open-pored and absorbent substrates like paper, cardboard, wood, felt, cork, and textiles. The composition contains starch or starch derivatives, polyols or urea as humectants, polycarboxylic acids or salt of polycarboxylic acids or xanthan gum as thickeners, and water. The combination of these components provides a transparent adhesive with improved stability, drying speed, and adhesion compared to known water-based adhesives.

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4. Water-Based Adhesive Composition with Starch Derivatives, Polyol/Urea Humectant, and Polycarboxylic Acid Thickener for Open-Pored Substrates

UHU GMBH & CO KG, 2023

Transparent water-based adhesive composition for bonding open-pored substrates like paper, cardboard, wood, fabric, and cork. The composition comprises starch, starch derivatives, a polyol/urea humectant, a polycarboxylic acid/thickener, and water. The composition exhibits improved storage stability, transparency, and drying properties compared to conventional starch-based adhesives. The humectant controls moisture levels, while the polycarboxylic acid/thickener maintains viscosity stability and prevents retrogradation. The composition is particularly suitable for applications where transparency and rapid bonding are critical.

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5. Water-Based Barrier Adhesives with Polyurethane and Hydroxyl-Containing Water-Soluble Polymers

THAI POLYETHYLENE COMPANY LTD, 2022

Water-based barrier adhesives for food packaging that achieve superior barrier performance and recyclability. The adhesives contain a polyurethane component and at least one water-soluble polymer, with the water-soluble polymer comprising hydroxyl groups. The adhesives exhibit high oxygen and water vapor transmission rates, enabling barrier films with >95% single-material recyclability. The adhesives can be formulated as aqueous solutions and applied as coatings, providing both adhesive and barrier properties.

6. Two-Component Polyurethane Adhesive Comprising Castor Oil-Based Polyester Polyol and Terminal Isocyanate Prepolymer

SHANGHAI HUITIAN NEW MATERIAL CO LTD, 2022

Solvent-free two-component polyurethane adhesive for high-temperature cooking applications, particularly for packaging materials. The adhesive combines a castor oil-based polyester polyol with a terminal isocyanate prepolymer, achieving superior performance in both bonding and thermal resistance. The polyol enhances film surface wettability and inhibits white spots, while the prepolymer enables rapid curing and improved peel strength. The resulting adhesive system provides reliable bonding and thermal resistance for packaging materials at temperatures up to 135°C.

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7. Solvent-Free Two-Component Polyurethane Adhesive with Aliphatic Isocyanates and Silane for Plastic Film Bonding

JIANGSU HUADA NEW MATERIAL CO LTD, 2022

Yellowing-resistant solvent-free two-component polyurethane laminating adhesive for plastic film bonding that provides excellent peel strength and retort resistance. The adhesive uses aliphatic or cycloaliphatic isocyanates to avoid aromatic amines, and adjusts isocyanate and hydroxyl ratios to balance reaction speed and curing time. A small amount of silane coupling agent improves adhesion. The adhesive is prepared by reacting polyols, isocyanates, and a silane in specific ratios.

8. Two-Component Polyurethane Adhesive with Polyester and Polyether Polyols for Retort-Resistant Flexible Packaging Films

HUITIAN NEW MAT CO LTD, 2022

Retort-resistant adhesive for food flexible packaging composite films that can withstand high temperature and high humidity environments. The adhesive is a two-component polyurethane system made by reacting polyester and polyether polyols with polyisocyanate and mixing with an adhesion promoter. The components are combined in a molar ratio of 1.75-1.9:1 NCO:OH. This provides superior retort resistance compared to conventional solvent-free polyurethane adhesives for food packaging.

9. Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive with Polyglycol and Poly Adipic Acid Monomer System

ZHEJIANG HEXIN TECH CO LTD, 2021

A high-performance, solvent-free polyurethane adhesive with improved bonding strength and environmental sustainability. The adhesive achieves enhanced bonding properties through the use of a novel polyurethane formulation that combines a polyglycol and poly adipic acid monomer system. This formulation enables faster open time, improved catalyst control, and enhanced chemical resistance compared to traditional solvent-based polyurethane adhesives. The adhesive is particularly valued for its environmental benefits and performance characteristics, making it suitable for applications requiring high bonding strength while minimizing environmental impact.

10. Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive with Dual-Coating System for Composite Films

DONGGUAN BAOJIAN POLYMER MAT CO LTD, 2020

Solvent-free polyurethane adhesive for composite films with enhanced barrier properties, particularly for applications requiring high barrier performance. The adhesive comprises a polyurethane prepolymer derived from a polymerization reaction, with an isocyanate and first polyol as reactive components. The prepolymer is formulated in a weight ratio of 100:10 to 100:80. The adhesive also includes a second polyol and nucleating agent, with a weight ratio of 90:100 to 100:90. The prepolymer coating is applied to one substrate, while the second polyol coating is applied to the other substrate. This dual-coating approach enables the creation of composite films with superior barrier properties without the need for aluminum foil or solvents.

11. Two-Component Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive with Variable Flow and Surface Tension Control

MEGABOND HUANGSHAN ADHESIVE CO LTD, 2020

A solvent-free polyurethane adhesive with enhanced leveling properties that eliminates the traditional corrugation issues associated with solvent-based adhesives. The adhesive combines component A and component B in a two-component system, where component A is formulated to provide excellent leveling and bonding performance, while component B is optimized for improved flow characteristics and reduced surface tension. The combination enables a single-step application process with enhanced leveling properties, while maintaining superior bonding performance.

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12. Polyurethane Adhesive Comprising Polyester Polyol, Polyethylene Wax, and Silicone for Low Friction Coefficient

MEGABOND HUANGSHAN ADHESIVE CO LTD, 2020

Solvent-free polyurethane adhesive with low friction coefficient through the combination of polyethylene wax and silicone. The adhesive combines a polyester polyol component with polyethylene wax and silicone, where the silicone enhances the adhesive's surface smoothness while the polyethylene wax reduces friction. The polyurethane formulation enables high compounding speeds and flat, stable composite films.

13. Water-Based Adhesive Composition with Specific Polymer Emulsion and Additive Ratios for Paper and Plastic Sealing

SHANGHAI ROCKY ADHESIVES CO LTD, 2020

A food-grade water-based adhesive for sealing paper and plastic in food packaging applications. The adhesive contains specific polymer emulsion, plasticizer, defoamer, surfactant, and water ratios. The adhesive is prepared by adding the polymer emulsion, defoamer, and stirring before adding the plasticizer, surfactant, and water. The adhesive has improved adhesion to substrates like BOPP, PE, PET, PVC films due to the selected vinyl acetate-ethylene copolymer emulsion and acrylic emulsion. The adhesive is environmentally friendly and replaces solvent-based adhesives for food packaging applications.

14. Two-Component Solvent-Free Aluminum Foil Laminating Adhesive with Polyurethane Integration

GUANGDONG XINHUI CHEMICAL CO LTD, 2020

A two-component, solvent-free aluminum foil type 135C high-temperature cooking adhesive for packaging applications. The adhesive is a multifunctional, laminating compound that combines properties of both polyurethane and aluminum foils, enabling effective lamination of transparent films to aluminum foil while maintaining high temperature resistance.

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15. Polyester Polyol Composition Incorporating Dicarboxylic Acid, Linear and Branched Glycols, Polyether Polyol, and Small Molecule Polyols

SHANGHAI HUITIAN NEW MATERIAL CO LTD, 2020

Polyester polyol for solvent-free adhesives that addresses common challenges in these applications. The polyol combines dicarboxylic acid or carboxylic anhydride, linear glycol, glycol with side groups, polyether polyol, and small molecule polyols. The optimized composition provides enhanced adhesion, improved heat resistance, and superior compatibility with polyethers and other materials.

16. Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive with Single-Step Curing for Composite Membrane Layer Bonding

RISHENG CHEMICAL CO LTD, 2019

Solvent-free polyurethane adhesive for composite membrane applications that enables rapid bonding of multiple substrate layers. The adhesive, comprising a polymer substrate or aluminum-containing film, forms a strong bond between dissimilar substrates through a single curing step. The adhesive achieves superior bonding strength compared to conventional solvent-based adhesives, with bonding times as short as 2 hours. This enables the production of composite membranes with multiple layers, including aluminum-containing films, that can be formed using a single bonding step.

17. Polyurethane Composite Adhesive with Phenolic Resin for Aluminum and Plastic Bonding

INSTITUTE OF NEW MATERIAL AND INDUSTRY TECHNOLOGY WENZHOU UNIV, 2019

Solvent-free polyurethane composite adhesive for bonding aluminum and plastic materials. The adhesive combines a polymer matrix with a synergistic combination of a phenolic resin and a polyurethane component, achieving improved peel strength and shear resistance compared to conventional adhesives.

18. Laminate for Flexible Packaging with Water-Dispersible Resin Ink Receiving Layer and Adhesive Layer

KONICA MINOLTA INC, 2019

Laminate for flexible packaging with excellent adhesion and boil/retort suitability, and a packaging using it. The laminate has an ink receiving layer, adhesive layer, and base film. The ink receiving layer contains a water-dispersible resin. The ink receiving layer satisfies two requirements: a hydrogen bond surface energy term of 40 mN/m or less, and hardness of 350 N/mm² by nanoindentation. This provides good ink adhesion in high-temperature water environments like boil retort processing. The water-dispersible resin allows ink dispersion in water, preventing peeling. The adhesive layer bonds the ink receiving layer and base film.

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19. Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive Composition with Amine-Initiated Polyol and Isooxyester Components

DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC, 2019

Solvent-free polyurethane adhesive composition for laminates, featuring improved conversion efficiency, bonding strength, chemical resistance, and heat resistance compared to traditional solvent-based adhesives. The composition comprises an amine-initiated polyol component and an isooxyester component, which can be applied independently to substrates before assembly. Upon mixing, the components react to form a strong adhesive bond between the substrates, exhibiting superior performance characteristics including faster curing times, improved chemical resistance, and enhanced thermal stability. The composition eliminates the need for catalysts and is specifically designed for food contact applications.

20. Water-Based Adhesive with Chloroprene-Modified Acrylic Emulsion and Variable Viscosity for Cellulose Substrates

BOSTIK SA, 2019

A water-based adhesive for bonding cellulose substrates that enables rapid bonding and maintains strength after application. The adhesive composition comprises a chloroprene-modified acrylic emulsion, a water-soluble polymer, and a thickening agent, achieving a viscosity range of 200-4000 mPa.s. This composition enables immediate gel formation during application, followed by rapid bonding, while maintaining a strong bond over accelerated storage conditions. The adhesive is specifically optimized for applications requiring high strength adhesion to cellulose substrates, particularly those with UV-coated surfaces.

21. Polyurethane Adhesive with Terminal Isocyanate Prepolymer and Hydroxyl Catalyst for Cross-Linked Network Formation

SHANGHAI HUAFON NEW MATERIAL RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 2018

Solventless polyurethane adhesive for flexible packaging that achieves rapid curing and excellent adhesion properties. The adhesive comprises a terminal isocyanate prepolymer, a hydroxyl compound, and a polyol. The prepolymer and polyol components form a cross-linked network while the hydroxyl compound acts as a catalyst. The adhesive exhibits fast curing, reduced processing time, improved mechanical properties, and enhanced environmental sustainability compared to traditional solvent-based adhesives.

22. Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive Comprising Isooxy Acid-Based Monomer and Polyol-Based Cross-Linking Agent

RISHENG CHEMICAL CO LTD, 2018

Solvent-free polyurethane adhesive for flexible packaging that enables rapid production and meets stringent environmental and safety requirements. The adhesive combines a high-performance, isooxy acid-based monomer with a polyol-based cross-linking agent, achieving excellent bonding properties while eliminating solvent residues. The adhesive formulation allows for simultaneous coating of both substrates, enabling a single-step bonding process that eliminates the need for intermediate drying steps. This innovative approach enables faster production cycles, improved quality control, and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional solvent-based adhesives.

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23. Solvent-Free Adhesive Comprising Diol-Polyol Mixture and Isocyanate-Terminated Polymer C Prepolymer

CHINA LUCKY GROUP CORP, 2017

A solvent-free adhesive for flexible packaging that maintains its performance during high-temperature cooking conditions. The adhesive composition comprises a diol-polyol mixture, diisocyanate, and a polymer C prepolymer, which is prepared through a controlled polymerization process. The prepolymer C is an isocyanate-terminated prepolymer obtained by polymerizing a polyoxypropylene diol and isophorone diisocyanate. The diol-polyol mixture and diisocyanate compound are combined under controlled conditions to form a component A, which is then heated to form a polymer C prepolymer. This polymer C prepolymer is then polymerized to form a solvent-free adhesive. The adhesive maintains its peel strength and resistance to cooking conditions, making it suitable for packaging applications where high-temperature processing is required.

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24. Solvent-Free Two-Component Adhesive System with Polyurethane-Based Resin Components of Distinct Molecular Weights

TIANRONG YU, 2017

Solvent-free two-component adhesive system for bonding various materials, including aluminum, plastic, and composite structures. The system comprises two components, A and B, which are mixed in a uniform ratio and then laminated and cured under heat. The A component is a polyurethane-based resin with a molecular weight of 200,000-500,000, while the B component is a polyurethane-based resin with a molecular weight of 50,000-150,000. The system exhibits excellent bonding strength and flexibility, with a maximum processing speed of 400 m/min. The components can be stored separately and mixed just before use, enabling efficient and safe application in composite packaging and other industrial applications.

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25. Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive with Self-Crosslinking and Graft Modification for High Temperature Resistance

WUXI WANLI ADHESION MAT CO LTD, 2017

A 100% solid, solvent-free, and environmentally friendly adhesive for food packaging that achieves high temperature resistance without additives. The adhesive is prepared through self-crosslinking and graft modification of a polyurethane polymer, eliminating the need for solvents and conventional additives. This innovative adhesive system enables reliable bonding in high-temperature applications while maintaining food safety and quality.

CN107177342A-patent-drawing

26. Two-Component Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive with Isocyanate-Terminated Polyurethane and Castor Oil-Based Component

SHANGHAI HUITIAN NEW MAT CO LTD, 2017

Solvent-free, water-resistant polyurethane adhesive for packaging applications that can withstand boiling and high humidity environments. The adhesive consists of two components. Component A is an isocyanate-terminated polyurethane made from a low molecular weight polyether polyol and polyisocyanate. Component B contains castor oil, castor oil derivatives, and castor oil polyurethanes along with a low molecular weight polyether polyol. This combination provides a solvent-free adhesive with high boiling and water resistance.

27. Solventless Polyurethane Cooking Gum with Bisphenol A-Based Polyether and Polyester Polyol Composition

JIANGSU LIHE ADHESIVE CO LTD, 2017

A solventless two-component polyurethane cooking gum that enhances peel strength and resistance to media through a bisphenol A structure. The gum comprises a bisphenol A-based polyether and a polyester polyol, synthesized through a process that maintains high temperature resistance while achieving improved peel strength and adhesion properties. The bisphenol A structure introduces enhanced thermal stability and chemical resistance, while the polyester polyol provides superior mechanical properties. The gum's unique composition enables effective peel strength retention and resistance to media degradation during cooking, making it suitable for applications requiring high-temperature performance and chemical resistance.

28. Solventless Polyurethane Adhesive with Low Friction Coefficient for Composite Flexible Packaging

BEIJING COMENS NEW MAT CO LTD, 2017

A low friction coefficient solventless polyurethane adhesive for composite flexible packaging applications, particularly for food, daily necessities, and pharmaceuticals. The adhesive composition comprises a component A and a component B with a functional group molar ratio of Group B to NC0: -0H = (1.1 to 1.8): 1. The adhesive formulation combines a polyurethane polymer with a functional group-containing component to achieve a low coefficient of friction. The formulation enables improved performance in composite flexible packaging applications where conventional adhesives typically exhibit high friction, particularly in thin PE film layers.

29. Polyurethane Adhesive Formulation with Polyether and Polyester Polyols and Additives for Enhanced Sprayability and Low VOC Emissions

FENGJING BUILDING MATERIAL GROUP CO LTD, 2016

A low-VOC, environmentally friendly polyurethane adhesive for construction and decoration applications. The adhesive combines a polyether polyol and polyester polyol with additives to create a spray-on adhesive with improved performance and safety characteristics. The formulation features a unique blend of foam stabilizers, anti-foaming agents, and catalysts that enhance sprayability and curing properties while minimizing VOC emissions. The adhesive's permanent tack and wide curing range make it suitable for various applications, including furniture, cabinetry, and decorative coatings.

30. Starch-Based Adhesive Composition with Carboxymethylated Polysaccharide and Non-Food-Grade Additive Exhibiting Shear-Thinning Rheology

COÖPERATIE AVEBE UA, 2016

Starch-based aqueous adhesive compositions and uses thereof. The compositions comprise a starch-derived adhesive that exhibits shear-thinning rheological behavior, enabling improved wet tack and reduced splashing during laminating processes. The adhesive composition comprises a starch-derived adhesive that contains a carboxymethylated polysaccharide, particularly a highly branched starch, and a non-food-grade additive. The composition is particularly effective for laminating paper products, cardboard products, and displays made from paper or cardboard, and exhibits superior wet tack compared to conventional starch-based adhesives.

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31. Aqueous Adhesive Composition with Biodegradable Polymer Resin for Flexible Packaging

SHANDONG HUACHENG HIGH-TECH ADHESIVE CO., LTD., Shandong Huacheng High-Tech Adhesive Co., Ltd., 2016

Aqueous adhesive for flexible packaging that replaces traditional solvent-based adhesives with a water-based formulation. The adhesive comprises a mixture of water, a biodegradable polymer resin, and additives, which provides strong bonding properties while eliminating the need for solvents and their associated environmental and health risks. The adhesive can be formulated into a laminating film suitable for packaging applications.

32. Solvent-Free Polyurethane Adhesive with Terminal Isocyanate and Polyol Components at Specific NCO:OH Molar Ratio

HUZHOU BERGMAN NEW MATERIAL CO LTD, 2015

A solvent-free polyurethane adhesive for flexible packaging that combines high tack performance with low viscosity. The adhesive comprises a terminal isocyanate component and polyol components with a NCO:OH molar ratio of 1.1-1.5. This composition enables a thin film application while maintaining sufficient tack for bonding, while the low viscosity ensures improved machine operation and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional solvent-based adhesives.

33. Two-Component Polyurethane Adhesive Composite Film with Isocyanate and Hydroxyl-Terminated Polyol Components

BEIJING COMENS NEW MATERIALS CO LTD, 2015

Solvent-free two-component polyurethane adhesive composite film and preparation method for flexible packaging. The adhesive combines isocyanate and hydroxyl-terminated polyol components in a 1.2-2.0 molar ratio, with the polyol components comprising polyether, polyester, or castor oil. This formulation enables a solvent-free laminating process while maintaining superior adhesion properties.

CN105111999A-patent-drawing

34. Adhesive Composition with High-Concentration Natural Ingredients for Paper and Cardboard Bonding

UHU GMBH & CO KG, 2015

Adhesive composition and stick for paper and cardboard bonding that achieves superior performance while maintaining natural ingredients. The adhesive composition comprises water, starch, glycerol, and fatty acids with a combined concentration of at least 98% of these components. This formulation provides excellent bonding properties without the need for plasticizers or other additives commonly used in traditional adhesives. The composition's natural composition makes it biodegradable and non-toxic, while its enhanced bonding performance enables stronger, more reliable bonding in various applications.

35. Water-Based Adhesive Composition with Dual Polymer Components of Distinct Molecular Weights

HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC, 2015

Water-based adhesives and coatings that exhibit enhanced adhesion properties on low-energy surfaces. The compositions comprise a first polymer component with a number average molecular weight greater than 50,000 Daltons and a second polymer with a number average molecular weight less than 20,000 Daltons. The adhesion composition, preferably an adhesion emulsion, provides improved cohesion and resistance to shear on low-energy substrates, particularly for packaging, leather, and textiles applications.

36. Bi-Component Solvent-Free Polyurethane Thin Film Adhesive with Polyester Polyol and Secondary Butanediol Components

ZHEJIANG DUOBANG CHEMICAL CO LTD, 2015

A bi-component solvent-free polyurethane thin film adhesive for food packaging applications. The adhesive comprises a polyester polyol component with propylene oxide and polyether glycol, and a secondary butanediol component with coupling agent. The adhesive formulation includes a wetting agent and a water solution stabilizer. The formulation achieves superior heat resistance and low-temperature performance while maintaining excellent adhesion properties.

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