Supporting Manufacturing Process Changes with an Innovative Microscopy Method

Abstract

Abstract Bakelite Chemicals LLC has developed an innovative microscopy technique to view adhesives “in use.” The cornerstone of the method is based on sample preparation. Samples of a composite wood product are sanded to a highly polished surface using a progression of sandpaper grits from lowest to highest. This preparation technique differs significantly from historical preparation techniques, which rely on soaking or embedding samples followed by thin-section creation using a microtome. The wet preparation technique causes wood cells compressed during production of the composite to swell and change how the adhesive is seen within those cells. The addition of water to the sample can also move uncured adhesive around the bond line. These changes can significantly alter the interpretation of how the adhesive performs during the manufacturing process. The new preparation technique combined with standard fluorescence microscopy has provided a groundbreaking and accessible ability to understand how an adhesive responds to process changes in manufacturing. Improving the understanding of the dynamic relationship between the adhesive and manufacturing processes will be crucial in helping the wood products industry take advantage of the rapid improvements in processing technology.