Ask A Scientist Materials Science Archive

name         Annelene
status       educator
grade        K-3
location     N/A

Question -   What are the preservatives in a glue made from starch
that can not affect the adhesion?
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Without researching the topic, I would guess that the addition of a little
"white" vinegar might improve the life of a starch glue. It will smell a
bit but it should lower the pH sufficiently to at least improve the life
of the glue preparation. Whether the adhesion is affected would depend
upon the strength of the bond required and lifetime of the glue.

Vince Calder
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