Lao K LLc conducts various research into alternative and sustainable adhesives. The firm has researched the develoment of a plywood adhesive made from soybean flour. According to the EPA, the new resin would provide a non-toxic, eco-friendly alternative to the carcinogenic urea-formaldehyde resin that interior plywood and other composite wood panels use to make cabinets, bookshelves and furniture. EPA says that the curing agent used in making the adhesive is derived from glycerol, a widely-used organic compound, whereas soybean flour is abundant, renewable and readily available. Additional product development focuses on a more sustainable pressure sensitive adhesive.
