Bone Glue – Natural Glue (Technical Gelatine)

Bone Glue – natural hot glue

Bone glue is a proven natural adhesive (glue size) that has been used in joinery for centuries. It is obtained by boiling animal bones and consists of pure collagen. The glue is free from preservatives, non-toxic and biodegradable.

Bone glue is particularly valued for its high final strength: it cures to a glass-hard finish while still allowing reversible bonds. With heat and moisture, the adhesive can be removed completely without residue at any time – a decisive advantage for repairs and restoration work.

Applications

• Natural, recyclable adhesive for a wide range of applications
• Used in furniture making and traditional joinery
• Used in paper and cardboard processing
• Technical applications, e.g. for rubber rollers or wood products

Typical areas of use

• Woodworking & furniture making: Ideal for furniture production and restoration, as bonded joints can be reopened
• Instrument making: Perfect for string and plucked instruments, as vibrations are optimally transmitted
• Bookbinding: For bonding paper, cardboard and fabric, as well as for spines and gumming
• Painting & restoration: Used as size for priming canvases or as a binder for paints

Application & Processing

Bone glue is a traditional hot glue and is processed as follows:

1. Stir into cold water and allow to swell (recommended concentration: 10–65%, approx. 20–130 g per 100 ml of water)
2. Heat in a water bath to approx. 60 °C
3. Apply while warm
4. Pressing time: approx. 30–60 minutes
5. Final curing: approx. 24 hours

As it cools, the glue shrinks slightly and pulls the workpieces firmly together. The working time can be extended by keeping the glue warm. Incorrect bonds can be corrected at any time using heat and moisture without causing damage to the material. Bone glue can also be used as an ingredient in wood glues and other adhesives, for example to produce ready-to-use formulations.

Properties & Advantages

• Very high strength, cures to a glass-hard finish
• Reversible – ideal for repairs and restoration
• Environmentally friendly and biodegradable
• Free from synthetic additives and preservatives
• Supports the natural movement of wood
• Versatile use as an adhesive or binder

Origin & Sustainability

The bone glue is made from animal by-products (pig bones) generated in the meat industry. This makes it a resource-efficient and sustainable alternative to synthetic adhesives. Production takes place within the EU.

Notes

Not suitable for consumption. Store in a cool, dry place. Keep prepared glue solution tightly sealed.