Overview
Dextrin glue is a plant-based, economical, and fast-setting adhesive widely used in corrugated cardboard production. It provides good wet tack, clean machinability, and stable viscosity—making it ideal for high-speed box manufacturing lines. The manufacturing process focuses on controlled hydration, gelatinization, and modification of dextrin for optimal bonding strength.
Ingredients Needed
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Yellow or white dextrin powder
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Water
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Caustic soda (very small catalytic amount)
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Borax (optional tackifier)
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Plasticizers (glycerin or sorbitol, optional)
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Preservatives
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Antifoam agent (optional)
Steps to Manufacture Dextrin Glue
1. Prepare the Mixing Water
Heat water to 55–65°C to accelerate wetting and dissolution.
2. Add Dextrin Powder
Slowly add dextrin into the vortex of the mixer to avoid lump formation. Maintain agitation.
3. Start Gelatinization & Hydration
Keep temperature between 60–70°C to allow the dextrin particles to fully hydrate and build viscosity.
4. Adjust pH with Caustic
Add a very small amount of caustic soda solution to increase tack and activate dextrin.
(Do not exceed recommended levels to avoid over-thinning.)
5. Add Borax (Optional)
Borax improves tack, wet strength, and quick grabbing on kraft paper.
6. Incorporate Additives
Add plasticizers, antifoam agents, or preservatives depending on performance requirements.
7. Final Homogenization
Mix for 15–25 minutes until the adhesive becomes smooth and uniform.
8. Cooling & Storage
Cool to 30–35°C before packaging. Store in clean airtight containers to prevent microbial growth.
Properties of Finished Dextrin Glue
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Light brown or white viscous liquid
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Medium to high tack
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Good spreadability on kraft paper
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Stable viscosity during machine operation
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Fast bonding under compression and heat
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Eco-friendly and biodegradable
Applications
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Corrugated cardboard bonding
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Carton side seam pasting
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Paper bags and envelopes
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Laminated paper products
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General paper converting industries
Summary
Dextrin glue for corrugated cardboard is produced by hydrating dextrin in warm water, adjusting pH, modifying tack with borax, and adding optional plasticizers. The process is simple, cost-effective, and ideal for high-volume packaging industries. Final glue provides excellent tack, fast setting, and clean machinability—making it one of the most widely used adhesives in corrugated box manufacturing.
