Overview
Dextrin adhesive—also known as starch-based glue—is widely used in corrugated cardboard production thanks to its low cost, fast tack, clean processing, and strong paper-to-paper bonding. Below is a simplified, production-ready procedure outlining how dextrin adhesive is manufactured for corrugated board applications.
1. Raw Materials Required
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White or Yellow Dextrin Powder
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Water
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Caustic soda (small amount for viscosity control)
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Borax (tackifier & strength promoter)
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Preservatives (optional)
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Plasticizers (optional; e.g., glycerin)
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Antifoam (if required)
2. Equipment Needed
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Stainless steel mixing tank with propeller mixer
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Heating system (steam or electric jacket)
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Thermometer
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High-shear agitator (optional for smoother slurry)
3. Steps to Make Dextrin Adhesive for Corrugated Cardboard
Step 1 — Prepare the Water Phase
Heat water to 45–55°C and start the mixer.
Maintain continuous agitation.
Step 2 — Add Dextrin Powder
Slowly add dextrin powder to avoid lumping.
Continue mixing until a uniform slurry is obtained.
Step 3 — Adjust Viscosity
Add a controlled small amount of caustic soda solution.
This activates dextrin and increases bonding strength.
Do not exceed recommended dosage to avoid thinning.
Step 4 — Add Borax
Introduce borax to:
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Improve tack
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Increase drying strength
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Enhance bonding performance on corrugated board
Mix until fully dissolved.
Step 5 — Add Optional Additives
If needed:
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Preservatives extend shelf life
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Plasticizers increase flexibility
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Antifoam prevents surface bubbles
Step 6 — Heat and Homogenize
Raise temperature to 55–65°C and mix for 20–30 minutes.
This ensures complete hydration and a smooth, stable adhesive.
Step 7 — Final Filtration & Cooling
Cool to room temperature (25–30°C).
Filter the adhesive if a very smooth grade is required for high-speed corrugators.
4. Properties of Finished Dextrin Adhesive
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Light yellow to brown viscous paste
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Good tack & bonding strength
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Fast drying
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Water-soluble
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Paper-to-paper adhesion optimized for corrugated board
5. Applications
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Corrugated cardboard production
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Carton box lamination
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Paperboard bonding
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Packaging industry adhesives
Summary
Dextrin adhesive for corrugated cardboard is produced by hydrating dextrin powder in warm water, modifying viscosity with mild alkali, enhancing tack with borax, and finishing with preservatives or plasticizers when required. The process is simple, economical, and suitable for large-scale corrugated box manufacturing. Its fast tack, clean application, and strong paper bonding make it one of the most preferred adhesives in the packaging industry.
