An all-in-one water-soluble cellulose adhesive: Exhibiting robust bonding, extreme-temperature tolerance, and reusability

Abstract

The replacement of formaldehyde-based wood adhesives with sustainable alternatives remains a significant challenge due to performance and reusability limitations. Herein, we reported a water-soluble cellulose ethyl phosphite (CEP) adhesive synthesized through a one-pot transesterification strategy in a novel CO₂-based solvent system, where the superbase served dually as solvent and catalyst. The CEP adhesive demonstrated an integrated performance profile: exceptional bonding strength (5.73 MPa), remarkable extreme-temperature tolerance (maintaining 5.54 MPa at –196 °C and 4.99 MPa at 100 °C), robust humidity resistance (4.87 MPa at the relatively humidity of 90%), good long-term stability (4.20 MPa after 28 d), and reusability. The adhesion mechanism combined strong interfacial hydrogen bonding with mechanical interlocking, while its water solubility enabled reversible bonding and substrate recovery. This unique combination of properties positioned CEP as an ideal adhesive for demanding applications, including reconfigurable furniture, recyclable packaging, and structural components in thermally volatile environments, providing a sustainable material platform for the transition toward a circular bioeconomy.