New doctoral dissertation: alternative components for safer industrial adhesives
In her dissertation, Kiilto’s Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Director Soilikki Kotanen (M.Sc. (Tech.)) examines alternative components for the production of polyurethane materials. Her research focuses on reactive adhesives and hot-melt adhesives. The results of Kotanen’s study can be utilised in the development of industrial adhesive manufacturing processes and use of adhesives safer.
Polyurethane is generally known as a component of foamed plastic, but it is also commonly used in adhesives. Typically, isocyanate is needed for the manufacture of polyurethane. However, reactive isocyanate is harmful to human health before it hardens, as it may cause asthma and cancer. This is why the European Chemicals Agency has limited the use of isocyanate and requires that it only be used by trained professionals. Kiilto is one of the companies that provide the required training.
Research discovers new methods to use adhesive
Kotanen’s dissertation studied the manufacture of non-isocyanate polyurethane (NIPU) by means of two reaction methods. Kotanen has been with Kiilto for many years and before taking over her current role, she worked as RDI Manager for polyurethane adhesives. Her dissertation topic was inspired by her day-to-day work.
“Although, with proper protective equipment, it is safe to use the current components, it is important to study alternative methods. This way we can find safer solutions, find new adhesive types and applications,” says Kotanen.
“This type of future-oriented research is necessary for the entire industry. Our partners trust our adhesives expertise. It is important that we can serve them with the latest information and data, and develop the industry further together. I am extremely pleased that Kiilto has the necessary expertise to conduct high-quality research and produce concrete information to enable ever safer solutions without compromising on quality,” says Tomi Takala, business area director of Kiilto’s industrial adhesives and fireproofing.
Promising results with bond strength
Industrial adhesives must be strong and durable. According to Kotanen, the use of alternative components and commercialisation of methods is often made difficult by the poor availability of the components at an industrial scale. Also, they may often react poorly with other components or in the process conditions.
“However, during testing for my dissertation, I found components that react quickly in room temperature. Based on the tests, the bond strengths of the adhesives are promising,” she says.
Kotanen’s dissertation increases our understanding of how alternative reaction mechanisms affect the properties of the final product.
“Alternative materials were found to have weaker water resistance than traditional polyurethanes. Further research is needed on the subject, or alternatively, we just need to find the right application. We also need more research in how additives and agents affect the adhesive properties,” Kotanen says.
Strong research and development culture
Kiilto is known for its strong in-house research and development unit. Some 10 per cent of Kiilto employees work in product development. In addition to this, Kiilto works closely with educational institutions and research institutes.
“Although combining work and further studies has been tough at times, support from colleagues helped me to keep going. We put our heads together to consider scientific theories, but also managed to proceed with good humour and always enjoyed any small success that came along the way. My research was very practical, which was a motivating factor even during the most challenging times,” says Kotanen.
Dissertation to be examined on 30 August
The research for the dissertation was carried out at the Research, development and innovation centre at Kiilto, at Tampere University and partly in cooperation with the Beccu research program funded by Business Finland.
The dissertation, Feasibility of Non-isocyanate Polyurethanes as Industrial Adhesives, will be examined in the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences of Tampere University on Friday, 30 August 2024. The Kiiltonians congratulate the new doctor on a great achievement!
Read article on the Tampere University website
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