1. Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s Urea Formaldehyde (UF) is a thermosetting resin, supplied as a clear liquid or white powder, produced by the condensation polymerization of urea and formaldehyde. It is the primary and most economical adhesive for the wood industry, used in the production of various industrial wood-based panels such as Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), particleboard, and plywood, thanks to its high adhesion to cellulose, colorlessness, and fast heat-curing properties.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Liquid MDF Adhesive Grade | Molding Powder Grade | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Content | 65 ± 1 | ≥ 98 | % |
| Viscosity (25°C) | 300 – 800 | N/A (Powder) | mPa.s |
| pH | 7.5 – 8.5 | 7.0 – 8.0 (in solution) | – |
| Free Formaldehyde | ≤ 0.3 | ≤ 0.5 | % |
| Gel Time (100°C) | 60 – 90 | 50 – 80 | seconds |
| Water Dilutability | Infinite | Limited | – |
| Color | White, clear to milky | White powder | – |
3. Features & Benefits
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Exceptional Adhesion to Wood: Forms a strong hydrogen bond with the hydroxyl groups of cellulose, creating high tensile strength.
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Fast & Irreversible Cure: Transforms into a hard, three-dimensional network upon the heat of the press, accelerating the production line.
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Colorlessness & Clarity: Has no negative effect on the final color and natural beauty of wood veneers.
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Low Free Formaldehyde: Formulated with an optimized molar ratio to reduce formaldehyde gas emissions from the finished product (E1/E0 grade).
4. Industrial Applications
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Wood & Furniture Industry: The primary adhesive in the production of MDF, particleboard, plywood, and cabinetry.
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Insulation Industry: The resin binder in the production of fiberglass insulation.
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Molding Compound Production: Manufacture of electrical switch and socket bodies, and cosmetic bottle caps (powder grade).
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Agriculture: A slow-release resin for coating urea fertilizer granules.
5. Safety & Handling
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MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): This material contains free and releasable formaldehyde, which is an irritant and a suspected carcinogen. A thorough study of the Arnico MSDS is mandatory.
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Storage Conditions (Liquid): Store in 304 stainless steel or polyethylene tanks at a temperature of 15-30°C, away from frost and high heat (has a limited shelf life).
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): When working with the liquid or powder dust, the use of a respirator with a formaldehyde filter, gloves, and goggles is required.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
Arnico Urea Formaldehyde shipments are accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing viscosity, gel time, and free formaldehyde content.
