Chapter 22. Dried Distiller's Grain with Solubles (DDGS)-based Bioadhesive to Make No-formaldehyde-added (NFA) Bio- and Nanocomposites

In this chapter, corn coproducts produced by the fuel ethanol industry, Dried Distiller's Grain with Solubles (DDGS), containing natural nanocellulose fibres and non-degradable protein, have been applied as formaldehyde-free bioadhesive for manufacturing biocomposite board. Various biocomposites based on wood fibres and other types of biomass fibres were produced. The results demonstrated the importance of the selection of the correct fibre to produce lightweight, high-performance sustainable natural bio-based boards using the DDGS bioadhesive system. The products exhibit a smooth surface, lightweight, high performance and microbial- and moisture-resistant structure. The selected natural fibres for this study included wood, bamboo, pineapple leaf and reed fibres to produce MDF, OSB, particleboard and pressed wood pallets. The end products are environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional plastic and wood biocomposites that meet industrial standards.