Ela Sanudo 

DES 40A

Professor Cogdell

June 4, 2024

Life Cycle of Elmer’s Glue Raw Materials

Glue is a heavily used item in schools, manufacturing and many aspects of life. Elmers glue specifically is a product that goes through many steps and requires many different raw materials to be constructed. As a product, it requires plastic and tape for the bottle, and many different chemicals such as Polyvinyl acetate, Polyvinyl alcohol, and Propylene glycol. The life cycle of Elmers Glue specifically relating to the raw materials used, is a process that begins in the United States and continues in manufacturing of both the glue and containers, distribution worldwide to classrooms for use, but arguably the raw materials required for this product are the very start and the most important. 

First we would start with the bottle, which is the time needed to even begin manufacturing the elmers glue product. It is produced with the raw material high-density polyethylene. Without the raw material of plastic for this bottle, the glue would not even be able to be distributed in the first place. In terms of the unique shape of the bottles, Elmer's chose a high-density polyethylene bottle with an offset neck, creating the classic look and also allowing for ease of application. A facility is located in Statesville, North Carolina called Matrix Packaging which handles the majority of steps involved in glue making, however most notably it is a key facility for bottle making, (How Glue Is Made - Process of Glue Manufacturing). This facility, much like the rest spread out across multiple countries, handles various stages of production including molding of high-density polyethylene bottles, filling them with adhesive, and preparing them for distribution. “When the new bottles are collectively aligned with other Elmer's bottles, they create their own POP display,” Snyder adds about the specific design made with these materials, (How Glue Is Made - Process of Glue Manufacturing, 13). The raw material holding it all together is the polyethylene. Now to the thing that holds it all together, the glue. 

Glue is specifically made from Polyvinyl acetate, Polyvinyl alcohol, and Propylene glycol, which is produced in a factory in North California, (Eco-Friendly Resin Adhesives: LD Davis Glues & Gelatins, 34). All of these chemicals are 50% mined and produced in the United States, while Europe, China, and other countries share the other 50%. Polyvinyl acetate, long for PVA, is the primary component of Elmer's Glue. It is synthesized from vinyl acetate monomer or VAM which production begins with ethylene and acetic acid, both of which have their roots in fossil fuels. VAM is collected by reacting ethylene with acetic acid in an oxygen catalyst atmosphere. When done right it creates the polymerized form polyvinyl acetate, PVA, which is the main adhesive in Elmer's Glue that we all know and love today, (Adhesive Testing at the Canadian Conservation Institute: An Evaluation of Selected Poly Vinyl Acetate and Acrylic Adhesives).  It is mined and extracted much like fossil fuels are. This is highly problematic in terms of the environment because Polyvinyl acetate is toxic in large quantities, and as its being hervested it could fall into rivers and get into our soil. It is also a very Energy inefficient process because of the distance the chemical has to travel in order to reach the many manufacturing plants. For example, the plant Matrix Packaging is set in North Carolina, and although unfortunately there is no information online of where the raw material is specifically harvested, one assume that the factories would be supplied by many different mining facilities, and therefore would use a lot of energy via truck and plane in order to supply all of the materials. Ethylene is created from natural gas extracted from the earth, (Arrow Engineering Mixing Products, 3). Ethylene is a flammable gas created by petroleum and natural gas. It is produced by steam cracking, in which hydrocarbons such as ethane and propane are heated to high temperatures to decompose into smaller molecules, including ethylene. This is an Energy-intensive process and creates large amounts of heat and greenhouse gases. Natural gas and crude oil in reserves in the earth are the major sources of ethylene. It is extracted from the earth through drilling and hydraulic fracturing. VAM is obtained by reacting ethylene with acetic acid in an oxygen/palladium catalyst atmosphere. The product obtained is VAM, which is then polymerized to form polyvinyl acetate, PVA, which is the main adhesive in Elmer's Glue. Acetic acid is typically produced from methanol, another derivative of natural gas. The extraction of these fossil fuels is fraught with environmental challenges, including habitat destruction, water pollution, and the emission of greenhouse gases, (Activity – Making Glue at Home, 9). There are efforts by Elmer’s glue for the general public to recycle by refilling the bottles, however I was unable to find any information on how the company helped with recycling after the bottles are dumped in the trash. But despite these unfortunate byproducts to harvesting these raw materials and the lack of recycling efforts, we move one step closer to the final product, which is the shrink wrap that decorates the bottle. 

Fort Dearborn Co. makes the bold, glossy sleeve labels. These labels are important for the packaging and is why we know the ingredients of the glue at all. Drilling operations in the Middle East, the United States, specifically Texas, North Dakota, and the Gulf of Mexico, and Canada extract crude oil and natural gas from underground reserves. Once extracted, these raw materials are transported to refineries. At the refineries, crude oil is heated and broken down into simpler molecules via a process called cracking, (Divalent Cations: A Molecular Glue for Protein Materials, 5). Natural gas can be processed to extract a molecule called ethane which, once extracted, it is cracked to form ethylene. Refineries are often in industrialized areas, so relatively close to the source of extraction. For example, Texas and Louisiana in the United States have a substantial petrochemical infrastructure. The shrink wrap is created with 3 different forms which include “Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). The shrink wrap is made by extruding the polyethylene through a die to create a thin film, which is rapidly cooled and then wound onto rolls. ” (Howser, 33). To produce the film's shrinking properties, the film is stretched while hot and then cooled, creating molecular orientation that allows the film to shrink when reheated during application. For shrink film application, LDPE would be the best choice, as it has higher strength and more durability for heavier items. Shrink wrap for Elmer's Glue is produced in specialized plants performing the extrusion and processing of polyethylene films. Generally, such plants are located in industrial parts of the country with well-developed petrochemical resources and all the necessary manufacturing infrastructure. For example, considerable production takes place in states like Texas and Louisiana, which serve as the largest petrochemical complexes in the United States, (Why Doesn’t Glue Stick to the inside of the Bottle?, 18). These plants are equipped with the necessary extrusion lines and cooling systems that ensure the production of high-quality shrink wrap. After it is produced, Elmer's shrink wrap travels to their manufacturing plants and is made into packaging for bottles of glue and other products. For Elmer’s Glue specifically, the branding is shown again at the top of each sleeve decorated in bold orange to match the bottles' dispensing closure tips. These different packaging materials and concepts are very important to the success of the project and are indicators of it’s importance.The wrapped products are eventually sent to retailers and customers. The whole process involves several steps of transportation and handling, which increases the environmental footprint of the packaging. The process of manufacturing is very similar to stickers and ironically uses a type of glue as well to adhere to the bottle. This is the final part of the process as the bottle is now full, with its label and ready to be shipped out. 

The life cycle of Elmers Glue specifically relating to the raw materials used, is a process that begins in the US and continues in manufacturing of both the glue and containers, distribution worldwide to classrooms for use, but arguably the raw materials required for this product are the very start and the most important. As one of the most versatile school, manufacturing, and general items, Elmer's Glue has a lot to be proud for for this product. Manufacturing this simple yet effective adhesive includes many steps and all sorts of raw materials. Elmer's Glue is made with chemicals including, but not limited to Polyvinyl acetate, Polyvinyl alcohol, and Propylene glycol and also plastic and shrink wrap which is used in packaging. The lifecycle of Elmer's Glue, in this case emphasizing the raw materials, begins with extraction processes that are largely founded in the United States. This is quite a critical process, for it forms the basis of the subsequent manufacturing, packing, and final shipping to different countries. In the long run, raw materials are the basic materials that make it possible to produce and distribute Elmer's Glue to different schools and other learning institutions around the world.

Works Cited

“(PDF) Adhesive Testing at the Canadian Conservation Institute: An Evaluation of Selected Poly(Vinyl Acetate) and Acrylic Adhesives.” Research Gate, www.researchgate.net/publication/282294374_Adhesive_Testing_at_the_Canadian_Conservation_Institute_An_Evaluation_of_Selected_PolyVinyl_Acetate_and_Acrylic_Adhesives. Accessed 3 May 2024.

“Activity – Making Glue at Home.” American Chemical Society, www.acs.org/education/outreach/celebrating-chemistry-editions/2020-ncw/making-glue.html. Accessed 3 May 2024.

“The Chemistry and Technology of Gelatin and Glue.” Google Books, Google, books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=eQkWefthLkQC&oi=fnd&pg=PA1&dq=how%2Bglue%2Bis%2Bmade&ots=U7Zs8Avsy2&sig=P7dLg1jtzIK1syq_2JQ3VUT7tlI#v=onepage&q=how%20glue%20is%20made&f=false. Accessed 3 May 2024.

“Divalent Cations: A Molecular Glue for Protein Materials.” Science Direct, www.cell.com/trends/biochemical-sciences/fulltext/S0968-0004(20)30200-0. Accessed 3 May 2024.

“Eco-Friendly Resin Adhesives: LD Davis Glues & Gelatins.” LD Davis, 13 May 2019, www.lddavis.com/products/liquid-glue/resin-glues/.

Hickman, Matt. “Are Horse Parts Really Used to Make Glue or Is That Just an Icky Rumor?” Treehugger, Treehugger, 24 Nov. 2020, www.treehugger.com/are-horse-parts-really-used-to-make-glue-or-is-that-just-an-icky-4864244.

“How Glue Is Made - Process of Glue Manufacturing.” How Glue Is Made - Process of Manufacturing Glue, www.gluehistory.com/glue-making/how-glue-is-made/. Accessed 3 May 2024.

“Why Doesn’t Glue Stick to the inside of the Bottle?” Wonderopolis, www.wonderopolis.org/wonder/Why-Doesn%27t-Glue-Stick-To-the-Inside-Of-the-Bottle. Accessed 3 May 2024.

“Why Industrial Glue Mixers Are Crucial in Glue Manufacturing.” Arrow Mixing Products, Arrow Mixing Products, 29 Dec. 2022, www.arrowmixingproducts.com/2018/09/05/how-arrow-mixing-products-and-glue-manufacturers-stick-together/#:~:text=Understanding%20the%20Glue%20Manufacturing%20Process,-There%20is%20a&text=Most%20glues%2C%20however%2C%20are%20made,is%20converted%20to%20is%20extracted.

Howser, David. “Adhesive Factory Produced All Kinds of Super Glue Plastic Bottle.” Made, boliglue502.en.made-in-china.com/product/UsAxIPdThDkN/China-Adhesive-Factory-Produced-All-Kinds-of-Super-Glue-Plastic-Bottle.html. Accessed 3 May 2024.

Embodied Energy Paper

Kexin Liu

DES 40A Spring 2024

Professor Cogdell

4 June 2024

Revealing Glue Life Cycle Waste

In our daily consumer products, there is a humble but ubiquitous ingredient in that is often overlooked: glue. From the labels that we put on our packaged products to the creative materials that hold paper together, glue is an indispensable commodity in modern production. Despite their importance, but have you ever thought about where the waste generated by waste rubber goes or how it will be dealt with? their impact on the environment is often overlooked by the average consumer. Throughout their life cycle, from production to the waste generated by disposal, glue can leave a significant footprint on our planet. This paper aims to take a deep dive into the glue industry and reveal the impact of its production and consumption on the environment. By studying each step of the life cycle, from raw material sourcing to waste and pollution management, one can gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact that glue waste can have. This study will investigate the life cycle of glue products and evaluate waste management strategies. This paper argues that solving this problem requires a holistic approach, which requires a comprehensive understanding of its ingredients and impacts, coupled with effective learning about how to manage waste. In this way, we can minimize the impact of glue on the planet and move towards a more sustainable future.

The potential harm that waste rubber may cause to human health deserves investigation and exploration. They claimed, "The formula now of Elmer's All-Glue doesn't involve use of any animal product. The product is made of PVA-based synthetic glue." (Walls & Ceilings) In this passage, we can learn that Elmer’s glue has a relatively simple composition. Kaboorani study found the following:

PVA is a colorless, usually nontoxic thermoplastic adhesive prepared by the polymerization of vinyl acetate. PVA was discovered in 1912 by Dr. Fritz Klatte in Germany. It is one of the most widely used water-dispersed adhesives. PVA is made up of a water-based emulsion of a widely used type of glue, referred to variously as wood glue, white glue, carpenter's glue, school glue, or PVA glue. (2015)

In summary, PVA (or polyvinyl acetate) is a versatile thermoplastic adhesive known for its colorless composition and generally non-toxic properties. Its water-based emulsion formula makes it widely used under different names such as woodworking glue, white glue, woodworking glue, school glue or simply PVA glue, making it indispensable in woodworking, crafting, and educational settings. So, the ingredients of this glue are relatively safe for human health. Elmer's Material Safety Data Sheet states that inhalation of the glue may cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs during use (2019). And it may also cause addiction and harm to the human body due to inhalation of glue. Benzene and toluene are the chemical components of glue. Glues and adhesives are often overused because they are readily available and cheap (Jayanth, 2017). Other methods of inhaling glue abuse include snorting and sniffing, from which addicts get a high that can cause chronic damage to internal organs. Therefore, to protect your health, although the PVA used in the glue is relatively safe and generally non-toxic thermoplastic adhesive. But when using these products, remember to open the windows and ventilate as much as possible, and avoid getting the adhesive in your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Environmental hazards are unavoidable during the production and use of glue. From the release of chemicals to the large amount of energy consumed, the impact on the environment is huge. In this section we will explore whether glue has any impact on the environment during its life cycle. PVA has been used in various adhesives and binders in the industrial field and daily consumer products. In addition, its toxicity is relatively low. However, PVA's good water solubility limits its application in underwater adhesives (Lee, 2020). However, it is this good water solubility that limits the application of PVA in underwater adhesives because it will dissolve in water and lose its adhesive properties. The components of waste glue are water-soluble and biodegradable, so the waste glue itself does not have much impact on the environment. In addition, transportation methods further exacerbate climate change due to CO2 emissions. In addition, the production and use of glue involves significant energy consumption and emissions, further exacerbating climate change and environmental pressure. During the transportation of glue, it is inevitable to use some means of transportation, such as aviation, cars, etc. According to International Energy Agency (2023), "CO2 emissions" it said that 'In 2022 global CO2 emissions from the transport sector grew by more than 250 Mt CO2 to nearly 8 Gt CO2, 3% more than in 2021.' From the information in this paragraph, we can know that as carbon dioxide emissions from the transportation sector continue to rise, rising carbon dioxide emissions will exacerbate the problem of climate change. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that creates an effect in the atmosphere, causing the greenhouse Earth's surface temperature to rise and causing extreme weather events. Elmer's Glue is produced by Elmer's Products, Inc., headquartered in Westerville, Ohio, U.S. (Wikipedia 2024) Domestic freight transportation in the United States is generally carried out by trucks and trains. These modes of transportation are important contributors to global carbon dioxide emissions, which will accelerate global warming and have a negative impact on nature. The interconnections between glue production, transportation and environmental impacts are illustrated, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable practices and waste management solutions throughout the life cycle of glue products.

Effective management of waste rubber requires implementing recycling and reuse strategies that reduce environmental impact while promoting sustainable practices. According to United Nations Climate Change (2022), "Plastic Promise?" it said that 'Approximately 7 billion of the 9.2 billion tons of plastic produced from 1950-2017 became plastic waste, ending up in landfills or dumped. This doesn't just have a huge effect on the environment, but on human health as well – indeed microplastics have been discovered in the human placenta for the first time.’ This data reflects the urgency of plastic waste management and gives an idea of the magnitude of plastic waste Huge, and its dual impact on the environment and human health. And plastic waste that is landfilled or dumped leads to pollution of land and water bodies, disrupting the balance of the ecosystem. The plastic problems generated from waste glue pose huge threats to human and environmental health. Elmer's Glue offers tips on dealing with waste glue, recycling, and reusing. They generally encourage consumers to take some simple steps to reduce waste and environmental impact. According to Elmer's Glue, "Recycled Glue Sticks" it said that 'This activity is a great way to teach kids the concepts of reduce, reuse, recycle. Instead of throwing away old crayon, they’ll be recycling them into empty Elmer’s glue sticks to create new crayons.' Elmer's Glue promotes their activity as a great way to teach kids the concepts of "reduce, reuse, recycle". By transforming waste into something useful and fun, children not only learn the importance of reducing waste, but also experience first-hand the positive impact of reusing materials. This program encourages creativity and resilience while deepening the understanding of sustainable practices. According to Elmer's Glue, "Elmer's Is Stuck on Sustainability" it said that 'Elmer's Is Proud to Team Up with How2Recycle®. How2Recycle is a standardized labeling system that clearly communicates recycling instructions to the public. Elmer’s has joined forces with How2Recycle and will be including these consumer-friendly labels on future packaging!' In its 2023 announcement, Elmer's Glue highlighted its partnership with How2Recycle® as a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond simply meeting regulations or improving its brand image. By partnering with How2Recycle®, they hope to provide consumers with more convenient recycling options, reduce environmental burdens and promote the development of a circular economy. Furthermore, Elmer's Glue and TerraCycle announced a partnership to increase participation in its 2010 Glue Crew recycling program. The program encourages schools to collect empty Elmer's glue bottles and sticks for eco-learning classes, and offers rewards and annual prizes. Parents and teachers can also support recycling by turning in clean, empty bottles to Walmart stores (TerraCycle, 2010). Through the program, children learn the importance of recycling and effectively help Elmer's Glue's waste glue disposal. Elmer’s Glue’s waste management is very comprehensive, so there is no need to worry too much about their waste management.

In summary, the raw material used by Elmer's Glue, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), is also the main ingredient of many glues. It is a relatively safe and biodegradable traditional adhesive. However, there is still a chance that waste glue will cause health hazards if it is discarded, misused, or overused. With a comprehensive understanding of its composition and impacts, coupled with effective waste management strategies, there is hoped to mitigate these impacts. Overall, while the environmental impact of this glue is relatively safe compared to some other adhesive options, responsible waste management remains crucial. The glue is produced in the United States, and carbon dioxide emissions are inevitable during transportation. As for the issue of discarded plastics generated by waste glue, Elmer's Glue is taking active steps to achieve sustainability through recycling programs, partnerships with organizations such as How2Recycle®, and educational programs that promote waste reduction and recycling. By engaging consumers and stakeholders in these efforts, adhesives can have a smaller impact on the earth. Solving the problem of glue waste also aligns with broader sustainable development goals, including combating climate change, protecting biodiversity, and safeguarding human health.

Works Cited

“Elmer’s Products.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 27 May 2024, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elmer%27s_Products

Bhakare, Madhuri A., et al. “Dual functions of bioinspired, water-based, reusable composite as a highly efficient flame retardant and strong adhesive.” Chemical Engineering Journal, vol. 454, Feb. 2023, p. 140421.
 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cej.2022.140421.

Elmer’s. “Elmer’s Is Stuck on Sustainability.”, Accessed 3 June 2024.
https://www.elmers.com/blog/recycling.html

Elmer’s. Recycled Glue Sticks - Elmer’s, Accessed 3 June 2024.
https://www.elmers.com/recycled-glue-sticks.html

Iea(International Energy Agency). “Transport - Energy System.” IEA, 2023.
https://www.iea.org/energy-system/transport

Jayanth S, Hugar BS, Praveen S, Girish Chandra Y. Glue sniffing. Medico-Legal Journal. 2017;85(1):38-42. doi:10.1177/0025817216671106 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27694447/

Kaboorani, A., and B. Riedl. “Mechanical performance of polyvinyl acetate (pva)-based biocomposites.” Biocomposites, 2015, pp. 347–364,
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-1-78242-373-7.00009-3.

Lee, Daiheon, et al. “Vata: A poly(vinyl alcohol)- and tannic acid-based nontoxic underwater adhesive.” ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, vol. 12, no. 18, 1 Apr. 2020, pp. 20933–20941, https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsami.0c02037?casa_token=9fBAOwUILtEAAAAA%3Awf5gXik9kntvzSoutDXWKDJarrR9IFu2l0-l_fUU9d_C7QKfKeBf7TghGuAIZ3LwEQ7uQrIOvROVwIrQ

Sierra-Romero, Adriana, et al. “Adhesive interfaces toward a zero-waste industry.” Langmuir, vol. 38, no. 50, 7 Dec. 2022, pp. 15476–15493, https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c02436

TerraCycle. “Terracycle(TM) and Elmer’s(r) Team up for the Glue Crew(r).” PR Newswire: Press Release Distribution, Targeting, Monitoring and Marketing, 30 June 2018, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/terracycletm-and-elmersr-team-up-for-the-glue-crewr-81236972.html#:~:text=The%20Elmer's%20Glue%20Crew%20Recycling,learning%20lessons%20throughout%20the%20year.

United Nations Climate Change. “Plastic Promise?”, March 2022.
https://unfccc.int/news/plastic-promise

Walls & Ceilings. “Infographic: History of Adhesive from Horse Glue to Elmer’s to Nano-Tech.” Walls Ceilings RSS, www.wconline.com/infographics/history-of-adhesive#:~:text=The%20formula%20now%20of%20Elmer’s,have%20the%20environment%20friendly%20nature.