Organic Glues That Dissolve in Water: Types and Applications

Organic Glues That Dissolve in Water

Several organic glues dissolve in water, including polyvinyl acetate/polyvinyl alcohol (Elmer’s glue), egg white, starch-based adhesives, wheat flour paste, gum arabic, animal glues, and dextrin glue. These glues vary in sources and applications but share water solubility and biodegradability.

Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) and Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVOH)

• PVA/PVOH glues—commonly known as Elmer’s or school glue—are synthetic but considered organic polymers.
• They come as white or clear glues and dissolve readily in water.
• They biodegrade and are widely used in crafts and school projects.
• Elmer’s glue is known to stick objects like paper and wood but can be dissolved again by soaking in water, making it reversible.

Natural Protein-Based Glues

• Egg white functions as a natural glue by drying to form a sticky film that dissolves in water.
• Animal glues (derived from collagen) are also water-soluble and have been traditional adhesives.

Starch and Flour-Based Adhesives

• Wheat flour paste serves as a traditional wallpaper adhesive. It dissolves in water.
• Starch-based glues, especially potato starch, are organic adhesives that dissolve in water.
• Adding trace copper salt can give fungicidal properties and improve shelf life.

Plant-Based Resins and Dextrin

• Gum Arabic is a natural plant resin used in stamps and art for adhering lightweight materials.
• Dextrin glue comes from starch hydrolysis and is a traditional organic adhesive dissolving in water.

Specialty Water-Based Glues

• Lime Line Wich produces water-based sizing glue for fine arts to hold metal leaf temporarily.
• This glue dissolves with water and suits delicate adhesion applications.

Considerations for Use

• Water-soluble glues are reversible, good for temporary bonds.
• Using them for seed adhesion to fiber mats may cause seeds to detach when glue dissolves.
• Alternative matrices like coco coir offer better root penetration than woven fibers.

Summary

• Polyvinyl acetate/polyvinyl alcohol: synthetic but water-soluble organic glue.
• Egg white and animal glues: protein-based, biodegradable, water-soluble adhesives.
• Starch and flour pastes: traditional, inexpensive, and water-soluble.
• Gum arabic and dextrin: plant-based, safe organic adhesives.
• Water solubility suits temporary or washable adhesion needs.

What is a common organic glue that dissolves easily in water?

Polyvinyl acetate, also known as Elmer’s glue or school glue, dissolves in water. It’s biodegradable and comes in white or clear forms.

Can natural ingredients like egg whites be used as water-soluble glue?

Yes, egg white dries like glue and dissolves in water, making it a simple organic adhesive option.

What traditional organic glue can be made from wheat flour?

Wheat flour paste has been used as a wallpaper adhesive. It is water soluble and eco-friendly.

Is starch a viable base for organic glue that dissolves in water?

Yes, potato starch can be used to make glue. Adding copper salt prevents mold growth, enhancing its usability.

Are animal glues water soluble and organic?

Animal glues are organic and dissolve in water, often used in woodworking and crafts.

What is gum arabic and how is it used as a glue?

Gum arabic is a natural adhesive used on postage stamps. It dissolves in water and is safe for organic applications.