RU2776738C2 - Composition of the binder - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: material engineering.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to a method for obtaining a product from mineral wool, a product from mineral wool, the use of at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid in the composition of a binder for the production of a product from mineral wool, a method for binding the surfaces of two or more elements to each other and a product containing two or more elements bound with an adhesive containing at least at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid. The method for obtaining a product from mineral wool includes the introduction of mineral fibers into contact with a binder composition containing at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid, curing the binder composition at a temperature of 5-95°C. The group of inventions is developed in independent and dependent claims of the formula.

EFFECT: decrease in the curing temperature of the binder composition, reduction or elimination of corrosive and/or harmful materials.

54 cl, 3 tbl, 16 ex

Description

Scope of the invention

The present invention relates to an aqueous binder composition for mineral fibers, a mineral wool product bonded with a binder, a process for producing a mineral wool product bonded with a binder, and the use of at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid in a binder composition for producing a mineral wool product. .

Prerequisites for the creation of the invention

Mineral fibers typically contain man-made vitreous fibers (MMVF), such as, for example, glass fibers, ceramic fibers, basalt fibers, slag wool, mineral wool and stone wool, which are bonded with a cured thermosetting polymer binder material. For use as thermal and acoustic insulation products, bonded mineral fiber mats are usually prepared by converting the melt obtained from suitable raw materials into fibers in a conventional manner, for example by spinning cup or cascaded rotary process. The fibers are blown into the forming chamber and, during the air transfer process and while still hot, are sprayed with a binder solution and randomly laid in the form of a mat or web on a moving conveyor. The fiber mat is then transferred to a curing oven where hot air is blown through the mat to cure the binder and firmly bond the mineral fibers together.

The previously preferred binder resins have been phenol-formaldehyde resins, which can be economically prepared and can be diluted with urea prior to use as a binder. However, current and proposed legislation to reduce or eliminate formaldehyde emissions has led to the development of formaldehyde-free binders, such as, for example, binder compositions based on polycarboxylic polymers and polyols or polyamines, as described in EP-A-583086, EP-A-990727, EP-A-1741726, US-A-5,318,990 and US-A-2007/0173588.

Another group of non-phenol-formaldehyde binders are the products of coupling/elimination reactions of aliphatic and/or aromatic anhydrides with alkanolamines, as described in WO 99/36368, WO 01/05725, WO 01/96460, WO 02/06178, WO 2004/007615 and WO 2006/061249. These binder compositions are water soluble and have excellent bonding properties in terms of cure rate and cure density. WO 2008/023032 describes urea-modified binders of a type that makes it possible to obtain mineral wool products that exhibit reduced moisture absorption.

Since some of the raw materials used in the manufacture of such binders are quite expensive chemicals, there remains a need for formaldehyde-free binders that can be produced economically.

An additional effect related to previously known aqueous mineral fiber binder compositions is that at least most of the raw materials used to manufacture these binders are derived from fossil fuels. Consumers currently tend to prefer products that are wholly or at least partially made from renewable materials, and hence there is a need to provide mineral wool binders that are at least partially made from renewable materials.

An additional effect related to previously known aqueous mineral fiber binder compositions is that they contain components that are corrosive and/or harmful. In this case, it is necessary to take measures to protect the equipment associated with the production of mineral wool products in order to avoid corrosion, and also to the persons working with this equipment, it is necessary to observe safety measures. This leads to increased costs and health problems, and hence there is a need to provide mineral fiber binder compositions with reduced levels of corrosive and/or harmful materials.

Another effect related to previously known aqueous mineral fiber binder compositions is that the manufacture of these binders typically requires significant binder curing equipment. The curing equipment is typically an oven operating at temperatures well above 100°C, eg around 200°C. Binder compositions that can cure under such conditions are referred to as thermoset binder compositions. The oven has a length of several meters, which ensures operation with a web continuously fed into it and the fact that the web leaving the oven is fully cured. Such furnace equipment is characterized by a very high energy consumption.

EP 2424886 B1 (Dynea OY) describes a composite material containing a cross-linkable resin of a proteinaceous material. In a typical embodiment, the composite material is a casting containing an inorganic filler, such as sand and/or wood, and a proteinaceous material, as well as enzymes capable of crosslinking the proteinaceous material. EP 2424886 B1 does not describe a mineral wool product.

Publication C. Peña, K. de la Caba, A. Eceiza, R. Ruseckaite, I. Mondragon in Biores. Technol. 2010, 101, 6836–6842 focuses on replacing non-biodegradable plastic films with renewable raw materials from plants and meat industry waste. In this context, this publication describes the use of hydrolysable chestnut tannin to modify gelatin to form films. This publication does not describe binders, in particular binders for mineral wool.

Statement of the Invention

Accordingly, it has been an object of the present invention to provide a binder composition particularly suitable for bonding mineral fibers that uses renewable materials as raw materials and reduces or eliminates the use of corrosive and/or harmful materials.

It was also an object of the present invention to provide a binder composition that does not require high temperature curing and therefore eliminates the need for high temperatures in the manufacture of a binder bonded product.

A further object of the present invention was to provide a mineral wool product held together with such a binder composition.

A further object of the present invention was to provide a process for producing such a mineral wool product.

A further object of the present invention was to provide a method for using such a binder composition to obtain a mineral wool product.

A further object of the present invention was to provide a method of bonding the surfaces of two or more elements to each other, wherein at least one of the two or more elements is a mineral wool element, the method using an adhesive that does not require high temperatures to cure and during the handling, application and curing of the adhesive, exposure to hazardous substances is minimized and protective measures are not required.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is preferably provided a formaldehyde-free mineral fiber binder composition comprising at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a mineral wool product comprising mineral fibers held together with a binder obtained by curing a binder composition containing at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a process for producing a mineral wool product, comprising the steps of contacting mineral fibers with a binder composition containing at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the use of a polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid in a binder for the manufacture of a mineral wool product is provided.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for bonding the surfaces of two or more elements to each other, wherein at least one of the two or more elements is a mineral wool element, said elements being held together with a mineral wool binder, the method comprising the following stages:

- providing two or more elements,

- applying an adhesive to one or more surfaces to be joined before, during or after bringing the surfaces to be joined into contact with each other,

curing the adhesive, wherein the adhesive contains

- at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid.

The inventors of the present invention have unexpectedly found that it is possible to obtain a mineral wool product containing mineral fibers held together by a binder obtained by curing the binder composition, and the binder composition can be obtained for the most part from renewable materials, the composition does not contain or only a small amount of degree contains any corrosive and/or harmful agents, and the manufacture of the mineral wool product does not result in emissions, such as emissions of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), during the manufacturing process.

The inventors of the present invention have also surprisingly found that using the method described, it is possible to bond the surfaces of mineral wool elements to each other or to bond one or more mineral wool elements to another element.

Description of Preferred Embodiments

The binder composition according to the present invention contains at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid.

In a preferred embodiment, the binders in accordance with the present invention do not contain formaldehyde.

For the purposes of this application, the term "formaldehyde-free" is used to characterize a mineral wool product in which the formaldehyde emission from the mineral wool product is less than 5 µg/m ² /h, preferably less than 3 µg/m ² /h. Preferably, the test is carried out in accordance with the ISO 16000 standard for aldehyde emission testing.

An unexpected advantage of the embodiments of mineral wool products in accordance with the present invention is that they have self-healing properties. After exposure to very harsh conditions, where mineral wool products lose some of their strength, mineral wool products in accordance with the present invention can regain, partially or completely, or even exceed the original strength. In one embodiment, the aged strength is at least 80%, such as at least 90%, such as at least 100%, such as at least 130%, such as at least 150%, unaged strength. This is in contrast to traditional mineral wool products where the loss of strength after exposure to harsh environments is irreversible. Without being bound by any particular theory, the inventors of the present invention believe that this unexpected property of the mineral wool products of the present invention is due to the complex nature of the bonds forming the network in the cured binder composition, for example, in a protein cross-linked containing phenol and/ or a quinone compound, or a cross-linked enzyme, also containing quaternary structures and hydrogen bonds, which ensures the formation of bonds in the network after returning to normal environmental conditions. In the case of an insulating product, which, when used, for example as roof insulation, can be exposed to very high temperatures in summer, this is an important advantage for ensuring the long-term stability of the product.

Polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid

Hydrocolloids are hydrophilic polymers of plant, animal, microbial or artificial origin, which usually contain many hydroxyl groups and may be polyelectrolytes. They are widely used to control the functional properties of water-based foods.

Hydrocolloids can be proteins or polysaccharides, completely or partially soluble in water and used primarily to increase the viscosity of the continuous phase (aqueous phase), i.e. as a gelling agent or thickener. They can also be used as emulsifiers, since their stabilizing effect on emulsions is due to the increase in the viscosity of the aqueous phase.

The hydrocolloid usually consists of mixtures of similar but not identical molecules and can be obtained from different sources and using different preparation methods. Its characteristic physical properties are affected by heat treatment and, for example, factors such as salt content, pH and temperature. Idealized structures are often presented in descriptions of hydrocolloids, but since they are natural products (or derivatives thereof) with structures determined, for example, by the stochastic action of enzymes, not exactly embedded in the genetic code, the structure may differ from the idealized structure.

Many hydrocolloids are polyelectrolytes (eg alginate, gelatin, carboxymethyl cellulose and xanthan gum).

Polyelectrolytes are polymers in which a significant number of repeating units carry an electrolyte group. Polyelectrolytes are polycations and polyanions. These groups dissociate in aqueous solutions (in water), as a result of which the polymers become charged. Polyelectrolytes are thus similar in properties to both electrolytes (salts) and polymers (high molecular weight compounds), and are sometimes referred to as polysalts.

Charged groups provide strong hydration, especially when applied to molecules. The presence of counterions and coions (ions with the same charge as the polyelectrolyte) introduces complex behavior that is ion specific.

Some of the counterions remain tightly bound to the polyelectrolyte as a result of its capture by the electrostatic field, as a result of which their activity and mobility decrease.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains one or more counterions selected from the group consisting of Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2+.

Another property of the polyelectrolyte is a high linear charge density (the number of charged groups per unit length).

Essentially neutral hydrocolloids are less soluble, while polyelectrolytes are more soluble.

Many hydrocolloids also form gels. Gels are networks containing liquid water exhibiting behavior similar to that of solids, with intrinsic strength depending on concentration and hardness and brittleness depending on the structure of the hydrocolloid(s) present.

Hydrogels are hydrophilic cross-linked polymers that are able to swell by absorbing and retaining large amounts of water. Especially known for their use in hygiene products. Materials such as polyacrylates are often used, but hydrogels can be made by cross-linking soluble hydrocolloids to form an insoluble but flexible and hydrophilic polymer.

Examples of hydrocolloids include: agar-agar, alginate, arabinoxylan, carrageenan, carboxymethylcellulose, cellulose, curdlan, gelatin, gellan, β-glucan, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, pectin, starch, xanthan gum.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a gelling agent.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is used in the form of a salt, eg Na+, K+, NH4+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, Ba2+ salts.

Gelatin

Gelatin is obtained by chemical decomposition of collagen. Gelatin is water soluble and has a molecular weight of 10,000 to 500,000 g/mol, eg 30,000 to 300,000 g/mol, depending on the degree of hydrolysis. Gelatin is a widely used food product, and therefore it is generally accepted that this substance is completely non-toxic, and therefore no precautions are required when working with gelatin.

Gelatin is a heterogeneous mixture of single and multi-chain polypeptides, usually showing helical structures. As a rule, the triple helix of collagen type I, obtained from skin and bones, which are the source of gelatin, consists of two α1(I) and one α2(I) chains.

Coil-spiral transformations can occur in gelatin solutions.

Type A gelatins are obtained by acid treatment. Type B gelatins are obtained by treatment with a base.

Gelatin can be chemically cross-linked. In one embodiment, a transglutaminase is used to bind lysine and glutamine residues; in one embodiment, glutaraldehyde is used to link lysine to lysine; in one embodiment, tannins are used to bind lysine residues.

Gelatin can also be subjected to further hydrolysis to smaller fragments up to 3000 g/mol.

When the gelatin solution is cooled, collagen-like coils can form.

Other hydrocolloids may also contain helical structures such as collagen-like helices. Gelatin can form helical structures.

In one embodiment, the cured binder contains a polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid having helical structures.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a low strength gelatin, such as gelatin with a gel strength of 30-125 Bloom.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a medium strength gelatin, such as gelatin with a gel strength of 125-180 Bloom.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a high strength gelatin, such as gelatin with a gel strength of 180-300 Bloom.

In a preferred embodiment, the gelatin is preferably derived from one or more sources from the group consisting of mammalian and avian species such as cow, pig, horse, poultry, and/or fish scale, skin.

In one embodiment, urea may be added to the binder compositions of the present invention. The inventors have found that the addition of even small amounts of urea leads to gelatin denaturation, and this can slow down gelation, which may be desirable in some embodiments. The addition of urea can also lead to softening of the product.

The inventors have found that the carboxylic acid groups in gelatins interact effectively with tri- and tetravalent ions, such as aluminum salts. This is especially true for type B gelatins, which contain more carboxylic acid groups than type A gelatins.

The present inventors have found that, in some embodiments, curing/drying of binder compositions of the present invention that contain gelatin should not be started at very high temperatures.

The inventors have found that starting curing at low temperatures can result in stronger products. Without being limited by any particular theory, the inventors speculate that starting cure at high temperatures can result in an impermeable outer shell of the binder composition that makes it difficult to release water underneath.

Surprisingly, it has been found that binders in accordance with the present invention containing gelatins have a very high heat resistance. The present inventors have found that, in some embodiments, cured binders can withstand temperatures up to 300°C without degradation.

Pectin

Pectin is a heterogeneous group of acidic structural polysaccharides found in fruits and vegetables that form gels that are stable under acidic conditions.

Essentially, pectins do not have a precise structure, and they can contain up to 17 different monosaccharides and more than 20 different types of linkages. Most of the molecules form residues of D-galacturonic acid.

Gel strength increases with increasing Ca2+ concentration, but decreases with increasing temperature and acidity (pH < 3).

Pectin can form helical structures.

The gel-forming ability of divalent cations is similar to that of alginates (for Mg2+ it is much less than for Ca2+, for Sr2+ it is less than for Ba2+).

Alginate

Alginates are framework polysaccharides produced by brown algae.

Alginates are linear unbranched polymers containing β-(1,4)-linked D-mannuronic acid residues (M) and α-(1,4)-linked L-guluronic acid residues (G). The alginate may also be a bacterial alginate, such as a bacterial alginate that is additionally O-acetylated. Alginates are not random copolymers but, depending on the source algae, are composed of blocks of similar and strictly alternating residues (i.e., MMMMMM, GGGGGG, and GMGMGMGM), each with its own conformational preferences and behavior. It is possible to obtain alginates with a wide range of average molecular weight (50–100,000 residues). Free carboxylic acids contain the water molecule H3O+, which is strongly hydrogen bonded to the carboxylate. Ca2+ ions can replace this hydrogen bond, stoichiometrically linking guluronate chains, but not mannuronate chains, into the so-called cellular conformation. To obtain specialized alginates, recombinant epimerases with different specificities can be used.

Alginate can form helical structures.

Carrageenan

Carrageenan is a general term for framework polysaccharides obtained by alkaline extraction (and modification) from red seaweed.

Carrageenans are linear polymers containing about 25,000 galactose derivatives with regular but not well-defined structures depending on the source and extraction conditions.

κ-carrageenan (kappa-carrageenan) is obtained by alkaline elimination from µ-carrageenan, isolated mainly from the tropical seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii (also called Eucheuma cottonii).

ι-carrageenan (iota-carrageenan) is obtained by alkaline elimination from ν-carrageenan, isolated mainly from the Philippine seaweed Eucheuma denticulatum (also referred to as Spinosum).

λ-carrageenan (lambda-carrageenan) (isolated mainly from Gigartina pistillata or Chondrus crispus) is converted to θ-carrageenan (theta-carrageenan) by alkaline elimination, but at a much slower rate than that which results in ι-carrageenan and κ-carrageenan.

The strongest κ-carrageenan gels are formed using K+ rather than Li+, Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+ or Sr2+.

All carrageenans can form helical structures.

gum arabic

Gum arabic is a complex and variable mixture of arabinogalactan oligosaccharides, polysaccharides and glycoproteins. Gum arabic is composed of a mixture of a low relative molecular weight polysaccharide and a higher hydroxyproline rich glycoprotein with wide variability.

Gum arabic contains both a hydrophilic carbonate and a hydrophobic protein.

xanthan gum

Xanthan gum is a dehydration-resistant microbial polymer obtained, for example, by aerobic submerged fermentation from Xanthomonas campestris.

Xanthan gum is an anionic polyelectrolyte with a backbone of β-(1,4)-D-glucopyranosoglucan (as cellulose) with -(3,1)-α-linked D-mannopyranoso-(2,1)-β- D-glucuronic acid-(4,1)-β-D-mannopyranose on alternating residues.

It is assumed that the natural state of xanthan gums are bimolecular antiparallel double helixes. The transition between an ordered double helical conformation and a single more flexible extended chain can occur at temperatures in the range of 40–80°C. Xanthan gums can form helical structures.

Xanthan gums may contain cellulose.

Cellulose derivatives

An example of a polyelectrolyte derivative of cellulose is carboxymethyl cellulose.

Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is a chemically modified cellulose derivative formed by the reaction of cellulose with alkalis and chloroacetic acid.

The structure of CMC is based on the β-(1,4)-D-glucopyranose polymer of cellulose. Different variants may have different degrees of substitution, but they are generally in the range of 0.6-0.95 derivatives per monomeric unit.

In a preferred embodiment, the binder composition contains at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least one other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose.

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is pectin.

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is alginate.

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is carboxymethyl cellulose.

In a preferred embodiment, the binder composition according to the present invention contains at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, where one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin, and the gelatin is present in the aqueous binder composition in an amount of 10-95 wt.%, for example 20- 80% by weight, eg 30-70% by weight, eg 40-60% by weight, based on the weight of the polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids.

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid have complementary charges.

In one embodiment, one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is one or more gelatin or gum arabic having complementary charges, one or more polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids selected from the group consisting of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, xanthan gum, or carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, the binder composition may be cured at a temperature of not more than 95°C, eg 5-95°C, eg 10-80°C, eg 20-60°C, eg 40-50°C.

In one embodiment, the aqueous binder composition of the present invention is not a thermoset binder.

The thermosetting composition is in the state of a soft solid or viscous liquid, preferably contains a prepolymer, and preferably contains a resin, which, upon curing, irreversibly turns into an infusible insoluble polymer network. [1] Curing is usually caused by exposure to heat, and temperatures above 95°C are usually required.

The cured thermoset resin is referred to as a thermoset or thermoset plastic/polymer, and when used as a base in a polymer composite, is commonly referred to as a thermoset polymer matrix.

In one embodiment, the aqueous binder composition of the present invention does not contain poly(meth)acrylic acid, poly(meth)acrylic acid salt or poly(meth)acrylic acid ester.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer.

Biopolymers are polymers formed by living organisms. Biopolymers may contain monomeric units covalently linked to form larger structures.

There are three main classes of biopolymers, classified according to the monomer units used and the structure of the biopolymer formed: polynucleotides (RNA and DNA), which are long polymers consisting of 13 or more nucleotide monomers; polypeptides, such as proteins, which are polymers of amino acids; polysaccharides, such as linearly linked polymeric carbohydrate structures.

Polysaccharides may be linear or branched; they are usually connected by glycosidic bonds. In addition, many saccharide units can undergo various chemical modifications and can form parts of other molecules, such as glycoproteins.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer with a polydispersity index with respect to molecular weight distribution equal to 1, such as 0.9-1.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises at least one phenol and/or quinone containing compound, such as tannin, selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase ( EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin. derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora, preferably tannic acid.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises at least one transglutaminase enzyme (EC 2.3.2.13).

In one embodiment, the aqueous binder composition does not contain formaldehyde.

In one embodiment, the binder composition in accordance with the present invention essentially consists of:

- at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid;

- optionally at least one oil;

optionally at least one pH adjuster;

- optionally at least one cross-linking agent;

optionally at least one anti-fouling agent;

optionally at least one anti-swelling agent;

- water.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is a non-emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is an emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is a vegetable oil.

In one embodiment, at least one cross-linking agent is a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and grandiflora tellima.

In one embodiment, at least one crosslinker is an enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1 ), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, at least one anti-swelling agent is tannic acid and/or tannins.

In one embodiment, at least one antifouling agent is an antimicrobial agent.

Antimicrobial agents can be benzoic acid, propionic acid, sodium benzoate, sorbic acid and potassium sorbate, which inhibit the growth of both bacterial and fungal cells. However, natural biopreservatives can be used. Chitosan is considered to have antifungal and antibacterial activity. The most commonly used biopreservatives with antimicrobial activity are lysozyme and nisin. Other common and useful biopreservatives include bacteriocins such as lacticin, pediocin, and antimicrobial enzymes such as chitinase and glucose oxidase. The enzyme lactoperoxidase (LPS) also has antifungal and antiviral effects. You can also use natural antimicrobial agents such as tannins, essential oils of rosemary and garlic, oil of oregano, lemongrass or cinnamon oil in varying concentrations.

mineral wool product

The present invention relates to a mineral wool product containing mineral fibers held together with a binder as described above.

In one embodiment, the loss on ignition (LOI) of a mineral wool product in accordance with the present invention is in the range of 0.1-25.0%, such as 0.3-18.0%, such as 0.5-12.0%. , for example 0.7–8.0 wt.%.

In one embodiment, the binder is not cross-linked.

In an alternative embodiment, the binder is crosslinked.

The present invention also relates to a mineral wool product, including a mineral wool product containing mineral fibers held together with a binder obtained by curing a binder composition containing a polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition wherein at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition containing at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least one other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition in which gelatin is present in an amount of 10-95 wt.%, for example 20-80 wt.%, for example 30-70 wt.%, for example 40-60 wt.% , from the mass of polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition in which one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid have complementary charges.

In one embodiment, the loss on ignition (LOI) is in the range 0.1-25.0%, such as 0.3-18.0%, such as 0.5-12.0%, such as 0.7-8.0 wt.%.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing the binder composition at a temperature of less than 95°C, eg 5-95°C, eg 10-80°C, eg 20-60°C, eg 40-50°C.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition that is not a thermoset binder composition.

In one embodiment, the binder is derived from a binder composition that does not contain poly(meth)acrylic acid, poly(meth)acrylic acid salt, or poly(meth)acrylic acid ester.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition containing at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid that is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition that contains animal proteins, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises at least one phenol and/or quinone containing compound, e.g., tannin. selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition that contains animal proteins, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11. 1.7).

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition that contains gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises a tannin selected from one or more of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolyzable tannins, gallotannins , ellagitannins, complex tannins and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, stalk sumac and tellima grandiflora, preferably tannic acid.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition containing gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises at least one transglutaminase enzyme (EC 2.3.2.13)

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained by curing a binder composition that does not contain formaldehyde.

In one embodiment, the binder is obtained from a binder composition essentially consisting of

- at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid;

- optionally at least one oil;

optionally at least one pH adjuster;

- optionally at least one cross-linking agent;

optionally at least one anti-fouling agent;

optionally at least one anti-swelling agent;

- water.

In one embodiment, the binder is not cross-linked.

In one embodiment, the binder is crosslinked.

Reaction of binder components

The present inventors have found that, in some embodiments, the mineral wool product of the present invention is best obtained when the binder is applied to the mineral fibers under acidic conditions. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the binder applied to the mineral fibers contains a pH adjuster, in particular in the form of a pH buffer.

In a preferred embodiment, the uncured binder has a pH less than 8, such as less than 7, such as less than 6.

The authors of the present invention have found that in some embodiments, the implementation of the curing of the binder is greatly accelerated in alkaline conditions. Therefore, in one embodiment, the mineral fiber binder composition contains a pH adjuster, preferably in the form of a base, such as an organic base, such as an amine or a salt thereof, inorganic bases, such as a metal hydroxide, such as KOH or NaOH, ammonia or a salt thereof.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the pH adjuster is an alkali metal hydroxide, in particular NaOH.

In a preferred embodiment, the binder composition according to the present invention has a pH value of 7-10, eg 7.5-9.5, eg 8-9.

The components may be other additives, such as one or more reactive or non-reactive silicones, which can be added to the binder. Preferably, the one or more reactive or non-reactive silicones are selected from the group consisting of a silicone consisting of a backbone that contains silicone moieties, especially diphenylsiloxane moieties, alkylsiloxane moieties, preferably dimethylsiloxane moieties, bearing at least one hydroxyl, acyl, carboxyl or anhydride, an amine, epoxy or vinyl functional group capable of reacting with at least one of the components of the binder composition, preferably present in an amount of 0.1-15 wt.%, preferably 0.1-10 wt.%, more preferably 0, 3–8 wt.%, from the total mass of the binder.

In one embodiment, an oil can be added to the binder composition.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is a non-emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is an emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is a vegetable oil.

In one embodiment, at least one cross-linking agent is a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and grandiflora tellima.

In one embodiment, at least one crosslinker is an enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1 ), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, at least one anti-swelling agent is tannic acid and/or tannins.

In one embodiment, at least one antifouling agent is an antimicrobial agent.

Antimicrobial agents can be benzoic acid, propionic acid, sodium benzoate, sorbic acid and potassium sorbate, which inhibit the growth of both bacterial and fungal cells. However, natural biopreservatives can be used. Chitosan is considered to have antifungal and antibacterial activity. The most commonly used biopreservatives with antimicrobial activity are lysozyme and nisin. Other common and useful biopreservatives include bacteriocins such as lacticin, pediocin, and antimicrobial enzymes such as chitinase and glucose oxidase. The enzyme lactoperoxidase (LPS) also has antifungal and antiviral effects. You can also use natural antimicrobial agents such as tannins, essential oils of rosemary and garlic, oil of oregano, lemongrass or cinnamon oil in varying concentrations.

In one embodiment, an anti-fouling agent may be added to the binder composition.

In one embodiment, at least one antifouling agent is a tannin, in particular a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and/or tannin obtained from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora.

In one embodiment, an anti-swelling agent, such as tannic acid and/or tannins, can be added to the binder composition.

Additional additives may be additives containing calcium ions and antioxidants.

In one embodiment, the binder composition according to the present invention contains additives in the form of crosslinkers containing acyl groups and/or amino groups and/or thiol groups. These crosslinkers can reinforce and/or modify the polymer network of the cured binder.

In one embodiment, the binder compositions of the present invention contain further additives in the form of additives selected from the group consisting of PEG-like reagents, silanes, or hydroxylapatites.

Product properties of mineral wool

In a preferred embodiment, the density of the mineral wool product is in the range of 10-1200 kg/m ³ eg 30-800 kg/m ³ eg 40-600 kg/m ³ eg 50-250 kg/m ³ eg 60- 200 kg/m ³ .

In a preferred embodiment, the mineral wool product according to the present invention is an insulating product, in particular having a density of 10-200 kg/m ³ .

Method for obtaining a product from mineral wool

The present invention also provides a process for producing a mineral wool product by bonding mineral fibers with a binder composition.

Accordingly, the present invention also relates to a process for producing a mineral wool product which includes the steps of contacting mineral fibers with a binder composition containing at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and curing the binder.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least one other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives. such as carboxymethylcellulose.

In one embodiment, gelatin is present in the binder composition in an amount of 10-95 wt%, eg 20-80 wt%, eg 30-70 wt%, eg 40-60 wt%, based on the weight of the polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids.

In one embodiment, one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid have complementary charges.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is present in the aqueous binder composition in an amount of 1-50, such as 2.5-25% by weight, based on the weight of the aqueous binder composition.

In one embodiment, the curing step of the binder composition occurs at a temperature of at most 95°C, eg 5-95°C, eg 10-80°C, eg 20-60°C, eg 40-50°C.

In one embodiment, the binder composition is not a thermoset binder.

In one embodiment, the binder composition does not contain poly(meth)acrylic acid, poly(meth)acrylic acid salt or poly(meth)acrylic acid ester.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises at least one phenol and/or quinone containing compound, such as tannin, selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase ( EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, the binder composition does not contain formaldehyde.

In one embodiment, the binder composition essentially consists of

- at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid;

- optionally at least one oil;

optionally at least one pH adjuster;

- optionally at least one cross-linking agent;

optionally at least one anti-fouling agent;

optionally at least one anti-swelling agent;

- water.

In one embodiment, the method does not include cross-linking the binder.

In one embodiment, the method includes cross-linking the binder.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is a non-emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is an emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is a vegetable oil.

In one embodiment, at least one cross-linking agent is a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and grandiflora tellima.

In one embodiment, at least one crosslinker is an enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1 ), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin. derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora, preferably tannic acid.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises at least one transglutaminase enzyme (EC 2.3.2.13).

In one embodiment, at least one anti-swelling agent is tannic acid and/or tannins.

In one embodiment, at least one antifouling agent is an antimicrobial agent.

Antimicrobial agents can be benzoic acid, propionic acid, sodium benzoate, sorbic acid and potassium sorbate, which inhibit the growth of both bacterial and fungal cells. However, natural biopreservatives can be used. Chitosan is considered to have antifungal and antibacterial activity. The most commonly used biopreservatives with antimicrobial activity are lysozyme and nisin. Other common and useful biopreservatives include bacteriocins such as lacticin, pediocin, and antimicrobial enzymes such as chitinase and glucose oxidase. The enzyme lactoperoxidase (LPS) also has antifungal and antiviral effects. You can also use natural antimicrobial agents such as tannins, essential oils of rosemary and garlic, oil of oregano, lemongrass or cinnamon oil in varying concentrations.

In one embodiment, the curing process includes a drying process, in particular by blowing air or gas over or through the mineral wool product or by raising the temperature.

The present invention also relates to a mineral wool product obtained by the method described above.

Preferably, the mineral wool product obtained from this application has a loss on ignition (LOI) in the range of 0.1-25.0%, such as 0.3-18.0%, such as 0.5-12.0%, for example 0.7-8.0 wt%.

A particular advantage of the mineral wool product according to the present invention is that it does not require high temperatures to cure. This not only saves energy, reduces VOC emissions, and reduces the need for equipment to withstand high temperatures, but also allows high flexibility in the production of mineral wool products using these binders.

In one embodiment, the method includes the following steps:

- obtaining a melt of raw materials,

- forming fibers from the melt using a fiber forming apparatus to obtain mineral fibers,

- providing mineral fibers in the form of an assembled web,

- mixing the binder with mineral fibers before, during or after receiving the collected web to obtain a mixture of mineral fibers and binder,

- curing the mixture of mineral fibers and binder.

In one embodiment, the binder is fed in close proximity to the fiber-forming apparatus, for example a centrifugal spinning apparatus or a cascade spinning apparatus, in any case immediately after the formation of fibers. The binder-coated fibers are then transported on a conveyor belt in the form of a web.

The web may be subjected to longitudinal compression after fiber formation and prior to substantial curing.

Fiber forming apparatus

There are different types of centrifugal spinning machines for spinning fibers from mineral melts.

A conventional centrifugal spinner is a cascade spinner that includes a top (or first) rotor and a next (or second) rotor, and optionally other subsequent rotors (eg, third and fourth rotors) in series. Each rotor rotates about a different substantially horizontal axis, and the direction of rotation is opposite to that of each adjacent rotor in sequence. These different horizontal axes are arranged in such a way that the melt that is poured onto the upper rotor rotates in succession on the peripheral surface of each subsequent rotor, and the fibers are dropped from each subsequent rotor and optionally also from the upper rotor.

In one embodiment, the cascade spinner or other spinner is positioned so that the fibers are formed from the melt and are entrained in the air as a fiber cloud.

Many fibre-forming apparatuses comprise a disk or cup rotating about a substantially vertical axis. It is traditional to arrange several such spinning devices in a line, i.e. essentially in the first direction, for example as described in GB-A-926,749, US-A-3,824,086 and WO-A-83/03092.

Typically, an airflow is used associated with one or each of the fiber forming rotors, and the fibers are entrained by this airflow as they are formed from the surface of the rotor.

In one embodiment, the binder and/or additives are added to the cloud of fibers by known methods. The amount of binder and/or additive may be the same for all spinning devices or may be different.

In one embodiment, a hydrocarbon oil may be added to the fiber cloud.

As used herein, the term "collected web" shall include all mineral fibers collected together at the surface, i.e. no longer entrained in air, for example formed mineral fibres, granules, bundles or recycled web scraps. The collected fiber may be a virgin web formed by collecting the fibers on a conveyor belt and provided as starting material without batting or other consolidation.

Alternatively, the collected web may be a secondary web formed by batting or otherwise consolidating the primary web. Preferably the assembled web is a virgin web.

In one embodiment, the mixing of the binder with the mineral fibers is done after providing the assembled web, using the following steps:

- exposing the collected mineral fiber web to the disentangling process,

- suspension of mineral fibers in the primary air flow,

- mixing the composition of the binder with mineral fibers before, during or after the disentangling process to obtain a mixture of mineral fibers and binder.

A process for producing a mineral wool product, including a disentangling process step, is described in EP10190521.

In one embodiment, the disentanglement process includes feeding the collected mineral fiber web from a channel with a relatively low air flow rate to a channel with a relatively higher air flow rate. In this embodiment, untangling is believed to occur as the fibers that first enter the channel at a relatively higher airflow rate are drawn away from subsequent web fibers. This type of disentanglement is particularly effective in producing open fiber bundles instead of tight clumps that can lead to uneven distribution of product material.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the disentanglement process comprises feeding the collected web to at least one roller rotating along its longitudinal axis and having spikes protruding from its peripheral surface. In this embodiment, the rotating roller also typically contributes at least in part to the relatively higher airflow rate. Often the rotation of the roller is the only source of the relatively higher airflow rate.

In preferred embodiments, the mineral fibers and optionally the binder are fed to the roll from above. In addition, it is preferable that the untangled mineral fibers and optionally the binder are thrown off the roller in a lateral direction from the lower part of its circumference. In the most preferred embodiment, the mineral fibers rotate approximately 180 degrees on the roller before they are shed.

The binder may be mixed with the mineral fibers before, during or after the disentangling process. In some embodiments, the binder is preferably mixed with the fibers prior to the disentangling process. In particular, the fibers may be in the form of an uncured collected web containing a binder.

It is also acceptable to pre-mix the binder with the collected mineral fiber web prior to the untangling process. Additional mixing can be carried out during the disentangling process and after it. In an alternative embodiment, the binder may be introduced into the primary air stream separately and mixed into the primary air stream.

The mixture of mineral fibers and binder is collected from the primary air stream by any suitable method. In one embodiment, the primary air flow is directed to the top of the cyclone chamber, which is open at the bottom end, and the mixture is collected from the bottom end of the cyclone chamber.

The mixture of mineral fibers and binder is preferably withdrawn from the disentanglement process into the forming chamber.

After applying the disentanglement process, the mixture of mineral fibers and binder is collected, pressed and cured. Preferably, the mixture is collected on a perforated conveyor belt, under which a suction mechanism is located.

In a preferred process according to the invention, the mixture of binder and mineral fibers is compressed and cured after collection.

In a preferred method according to the invention, the mixture of binder and mineral fibers is separated from the substrate after collection and then pressed and cured.

The method can be carried out as a batch process, however, in accordance with one embodiment, the method is carried out in a line for the production of a mineral wool product with the supply of primary and secondary sheets of mineral wool in a fiber separation process, which provides a particularly economical and versatile method for obtaining composite materials having favorable mechanical properties and thermal insulation properties in a wide range of densities.

At the same time, given that the curing takes place at ambient temperature, the likelihood of spots of uncured binder is significantly reduced.

Curing

The web is cured by chemical and/or physical reaction of the binder components.

In one embodiment, curing occurs in a curing device.

In one embodiment, curing is carried out at temperatures of 5-95°C, eg 5-80°C, eg 5-60°C, eg 8-50°C, eg 10-40°C.

In one embodiment, curing occurs in a conventional mineral wool curing oven that operates at temperatures of 5-95°C, eg 5-80°C, eg 10-60°C, eg 20-40°C.

The curing process can begin immediately after the binder has been applied to the fibres. Curing is defined as the process by which a physical and/or chemical reaction occurs in a binder composition which, in the case of a chemical reaction, typically increases the molecular weight of the compounds in the binder composition and thereby increases the viscosity of the binder composition, typically until the binder composition will not reach a solid state.

In one embodiment, the curing process includes cross-linking and/or incorporating water in the form of water of crystallization.

In one embodiment, the cured binder contains water of crystallization, the content of which may decrease and increase depending on the prevailing conditions of temperature, pressure and humidity.

In one embodiment, the curing process includes a drying process.

In a preferred embodiment, the curing of the binder in contact with the mineral fibers takes place in a heat press.

The curing of the binder in contact with the mineral fibers in a heat press has a particular advantage in that high density products can be obtained.

In one embodiment, the curing process includes pressure drying. Pressure can be applied by blowing air or gas over/through the mixture of mineral fibers and binder. The purge process may be accompanied by heating or cooling, or it may take place at ambient temperature.

In one embodiment, the curing process takes place in a humid environment.

A humid environment may have an RH of 60-99%, such as 70-95%, such as 80-92%. Curing in a humid environment may be followed by curing or drying to achieve a state of prevailing moisture.

In one embodiment, curing is performed in an oxygen depleted environment.

Without being bound by any particular theory, it is the applicant's belief that curing in an oxygen-depleted environment is particularly advantageous if the binder composition contains an enzyme, since this increases the stability of the enzyme component in some embodiments, especially the transglutaminase enzyme, and thereby improves cross-linking efficiency. In one embodiment, the curing process is thus carried out in an inert atmosphere, in particular an atmosphere of an inert gas such as nitrogen.

In some embodiments, in particular in embodiments in which the binder composition contains phenolic compounds, in particular tannins, oxidizing agents may be added. Oxidizing agents as additives may be intended to increase the rate of oxidation of phenolic compounds, in particular tannins. An example is the enzyme tyrosinase, which oxidizes phenols to hydroxyphenols/quinones and hence speeds up the binder formation reaction.

In another embodiment, the oxidizing agent supplied to the binder is oxygen.

In one embodiment, curing is performed in an oxygen enriched environment.

The mineral wool product may be in any conventional configuration, such as a mat or slab, and may be cut and/or shaped (eg, into sections of pipe) before, during, or after the binder has cured.

The use of polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid in the composition of the binder

The present invention also relates to the use of at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid in a binder composition for the manufacture of a mineral wool product.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids are used, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least one other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose.

In one embodiment, gelatin is used in an amount of 10-95% by weight, eg 20-80% by weight, eg 30-70% by weight, eg 40-60% by weight, based on the weight of the polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids.

In one embodiment, one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid have complementary charges.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid in the aqueous binder composition for a mineral wool product is used in an amount of 1-50, such as 2.5-15 wt %, based on the weight of the aqueous binder composition.

In one embodiment, curing of the aqueous binder composition for the manufacture of a mineral wool product occurs at a temperature of not more than 95°C, such as 5-95°C, such as 10-80°C, such as 20-60°C, such as 40-50° C.

In one embodiment, at least a polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is used in an aqueous binder composition to produce a mineral wool product that is not a thermoset binder.

In one embodiment, a polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is used in a binder to produce a mineral wool product that does not contain poly(meth)acrylic acid, poly(meth)acrylic acid salt, or poly(meth)acrylic acid ester.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the binder composition further comprises at least one phenol and/or quinone containing compound, such as tannin, selected from one or more components of the group , consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora.

In one embodiment, the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase ( EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora, preferably tannic acid.

In one embodiment, the binder composition comprises gelatin, and wherein the binder composition further comprises at least one transglutaminase enzyme (EC 2.3.2.13).

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is used in a binder to produce a formaldehyde-free mineral wool product.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is used in an aqueous binder composition to produce a mineral wool product essentially consisting of:

- at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid;

- optionally at least one oil;

optionally at least one pH adjuster;

- optionally at least one cross-linking agent;

optionally at least one anti-fouling agent;

optionally at least one anti-swelling agent;

- water.

In one embodiment, the application does not include cross-linking the binder composition.

In one embodiment, the application includes cross-linking the binder composition.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is a non-emulsified hydrocarbon oil. In one embodiment, at least one oil is an emulsified hydrocarbon oil. In one embodiment, at least one oil is a vegetable oil.

In one embodiment, at least one cross-linking agent is a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and grandiflora tellima.

In one embodiment, at least one crosslinker is an enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1 ), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, at least one anti-swelling agent is tannic acid and/or tannins.

In one embodiment, at least one antifouling agent is an antimicrobial agent.

Antimicrobial agents can be benzoic acid, propionic acid, sodium benzoate, sorbic acid and potassium sorbate, which inhibit the growth of both bacterial and fungal cells. However, natural biopreservatives can be used. Chitosan is considered to have antifungal and antibacterial activity. The most commonly used biopreservatives with antimicrobial activity are lysozyme and nisin. Other common and useful biopreservatives include bacteriocins such as lacticin, pediocin, and antimicrobial enzymes such as chitinase and glucose oxidase. The enzyme lactoperoxidase (LPS) also has antifungal and antiviral effects. You can also use natural antimicrobial agents such as tannins, essential oils of rosemary and garlic, oil of oregano, lemongrass or cinnamon oil in varying concentrations.

The present invention also relates to a mineral wool product resulting from the above application.

Preferably, the mineral wool product obtained from this application has a loss on ignition (LOI) in the range of 0.1-25.0%, e.g. 0.3-18.0%, e.g. 0.5-12.0%, e.g. 0.7–8.0 wt.%.

Advantages of the binder composition

The mineral wool product according to the present invention has the unexpected advantage that it can be made using a very simple binder requiring only one component, namely at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid, and this binder does not require no prior reaction. Thus, the mineral wool product according to the present invention is made from natural and non-toxic ingredients and is therefore safe to handle. At the same time, the mineral wool product of the present invention is produced using a binder based on renewable resources.

Since the binder used to manufacture the mineral wool product according to the present invention can be cured at ambient or near ambient temperature, the energy consumption in the manufacture of such products is very low. The non-toxic and non-corrosive nature of the binder embodiments, combined with ambient temperature curing, can significantly reduce the use of complex equipment. At the same time, given that the curing takes place at ambient temperature, the likelihood of spots of uncured binder is significantly reduced.

Additional important advantages are the self-healing capabilities of mineral wool products produced using these binders.

Another advantage of mineral wool products is that they can be shaped to the desired shape after application of the binder but before curing. This provides the opportunity for the production of specialized products such as pipe sections.

Another benefit is the significantly reduced risk of burnout.

Burnout can be associated with exothermic reactions during the manufacture of a mineral wool product that increase temperatures within the core of the insulating material, causing the mineral fibers to fuse or devitrify, and ultimately create a fire hazard. In the worst case, burnout can cause a fire in stacks of boards in warehouses or during transportation.

Another advantage is the absence of curing emissions, in particular the absence of emissions of volatile organic compounds.

A method of linking together the surfaces of two or more elements

The present inventors have surprisingly found that the composition described above can also serve as an adhesive in a method for bonding surfaces of two or more elements to each other.

Accordingly, the present invention also relates to a method for bonding the surfaces of two or more elements to each other, wherein at least one of the two or more elements is a mineral wool element, said mineral wool elements being held together with a mineral wool binder, the method comprising the following steps:

- providing two or more elements,

- applying an adhesive to one or more surfaces to be joined before, during or after bringing the surfaces to be joined into contact with each other,

curing the adhesive, wherein the adhesive contains

- at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid.

In one embodiment, the two or more elements are two or more mineral wool elements.

In one embodiment, the two or more elements include at least one element that is not a mineral wool element.

In one embodiment, at least one element that is not a mineral wool element is selected from the group consisting of a fleece, such as fiberglass fleece, a building structure, such as a wall, ceiling, or roof.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin and at least one other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as like carboxymethyl cellulose.

In one embodiment, gelatin is present in the adhesive in an amount of 10-95% by weight, eg 20-80% by weight, eg 30-70% by weight, eg 40-60% by weight, of the polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids.

In one embodiment, one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid have complementary charges.

In one embodiment, the adhesive may be cured at a temperature of not more than 95°C, such as 5-95°C, such as 10-80°C, such as 20-60°C, such as 40-50°C.

In one embodiment, the adhesive is not a thermoset adhesive.

In one embodiment, the adhesive does not contain poly(meth)acrylic acid, poly(meth)acrylic acid salt or poly(meth)acrylic acid ester.

In one embodiment, at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer.

In one embodiment, the adhesive contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the adhesive further comprises at least one phenol and/or quinone containing compound, e.g., tannin, selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannin acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolyzable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora.

In one embodiment, the adhesive contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin, and hydrolyzed gelatin, and wherein the adhesive further comprises at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1) , thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises gelatin, and the adhesive further comprises a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora, preferably tannic acid.

In one embodiment, the adhesive comprises gelatin and the adhesive further comprises at least one transglutaminase enzyme (EC 2.3.2.13).

In one embodiment, the adhesive does not contain formaldehyde.

In one embodiment, the adhesive essentially consists of

- at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid;

- optionally at least one oil;

optionally at least one pH adjuster;

- optionally at least one cross-linking agent;

optionally at least one anti-fouling agent;

optionally at least one anti-swelling agent;

- water.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is a non-emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is an emulsified hydrocarbon oil.

In one embodiment, at least one oil is a vegetable oil.

In one embodiment, at least one cross-linking agent is a tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins), hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins, and/or tannin derived from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and grandiflora tellima.

In one embodiment, at least one crosslinker is an enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase (EC 2.3.2.13), protein disulfide isomerase (EC 5.3.4.1), thiol oxidase (EC 1.8.3.2), polyphenol oxidase (EC 1.14.18.1 ), in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase (EC 1.4.3.13) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7).

In one embodiment, at least one anti-swelling agent is tannic acid and/or tannins.

In one embodiment, at least one antifouling agent is an antimicrobial agent.

Antimicrobial agents can be benzoic acid, propionic acid, sodium benzoate, sorbic acid and potassium sorbate, which inhibit the growth of both bacterial and fungal cells. However, natural biopreservatives can be used. Chitosan is considered to have antifungal and antibacterial activity. The most commonly used biopreservatives with antimicrobial activity are lysozyme and nisin. Other common and useful biopreservatives include bacteriocins such as lacticin, pediocin, and antimicrobial enzymes such as chitinase and glucose oxidase. The enzyme lactoperoxidase (LPS) also has antifungal and antiviral effects. You can also use natural antimicrobial agents such as tannins, essential oils of rosemary and garlic, oil of oregano, lemongrass or cinnamon oil in varying concentrations.

The present inventors have surprisingly found that it is possible to bond the surfaces of mineral wool elements to each other or to bond one or more mineral wool elements to another element using the method described. Since the adhesive used in the method, in some embodiments, usually does not contain any harmful substances and usually does not emit any harmful substances when cured, the method can be performed by anyone on site without any protective equipment and without the need for special training in the implementation of the method.

Examples

In the following examples, several binders falling within the definition of the present invention were prepared and compared with prior art binders.

Prior Art Binders

For prior art binders, the following properties were determined.

Reagents

The silane (Momentive VS-142) was provided by Momentive and was considered 100% for simplicity. All other high purity components were supplied by Sigma-Aldrich and were considered anhydrous for simplicity unless otherwise noted.

Solids content of binder components, determination

The content of each of the components in this binder solution before curing was calculated from the dry weight of the components. You can use the following formula:

Binder solids, definition and procedure

The content of the binder after curing is referred to as "binding agent solids".

Disc-shaped stone wool samples (diameter: 5 cm; height 1 cm) were cut from the stone wool and heat treated at 580° C. for at least 30 minutes to remove all organic matter. The solids content of the binder mixture (see below for examples of mixtures) was measured by spreading a sample of the binder mixture (about 2 g) over a heat-treated stone wool disk in a foil container. The weight of the foil container containing the stone wool disk was determined before and immediately after the addition of the binder mixture. Provided two such stone wool disks coated with a binder mixture in foil containers and heated them at 200°C for 1 hour. After cooling and keeping at room temperature for 10 minutes, the samples were weighed and the solids content of the binder was determined as the average of the two results. Thereafter, a binder with the desired binder solids content could be obtained by dilution using the required amount of water and 10% aq. silane solution (Momentive VS-142).

Reaction loss, definition

Reaction loss is defined as the difference between the solids of the binder components and the solids of the binder.

Mechanical strength studies (bar tests), procedure

The mechanical strength of the binders was investigated in the test bars. For each binder, 16 bars were made from a mixture of binder and stone wool granules formed in the stone wool spinning process. The pellets are particles having the same melt composition as stone wool fibers, and the pellets are generally considered to be spinning waste. The granules used in the composition of the bars had a size of 0.25–0.50 mm.

A 15% binder solids solution containing 0.5% silane (Momentive VS-142) from binder solids was prepared as described above in the binder solids section. A sample of this binder solution (16.0 g) was mixed well with the granules (80.0 g). The resulting mixture was evenly distributed over four compartments in a heat-resistant silicone mold to obtain small bars (4 × 5 compartments per mold; top compartment size: length = 5.6 cm, width = 2.5 cm; bottom compartment size: length = 5 .3 cm, width = 2.2 cm; compartment height = 1.1 cm). The mixtures placed in the compartments were then pressed tightly with a flat metal bar of a suitable size to obtain even surfaces of the bars. Thus, 16 bars were obtained from each binder. The resulting bars were further cured at 200° C. for 1 hour. After cooling to room temperature, the bars were carefully removed from the containers. Eight of the 16 bars were aged in an autoclave (15 min / 120°C / 0.12 MPa (1.2 bar)).

After drying for 1-2 days, all bars were broken in a 3-point bend test (test speed: 10.0 mm/min; break rate: 50%; nominal force: 30 MPa (30 N/mm ² ); distance: 40 mm, max deflection 20 mm, nominal modulus of elasticity 10,000 MPa (10,000 N/mm ² )) on Bent Tram to test their mechanical strength. The bars were placed in the apparatus with the "top surface" up (ie, a surface with a length = 5.6 cm, a width = 2.5 cm).

Loss on ignition (LOI) bars

Loss on ignition (LOI) of the bars was measured in small foil containers when heated to 580°C. For each measurement, the foil container was first heated at 580° C. for 15 minutes to remove all organic matter. The foil containers were allowed to cool to ambient temperature and then weighed. Four bars (usually after breaking in a 3-point bend test) were placed in a foil container and weighed together. The foil container containing the bars was further heated at 580° C. for 30 minutes, allowed to cool to ambient temperature, and then weighed again. The LOI was then calculated using the following formula:

Comparative Examples - Prior Art Reference Binders

Binder Example, Reference Binder A (urea-modified phenol-formaldehyde resin, PUF-resol)

Phenol-formaldehyde resin was obtained by the reaction of 37% aq. a solution of formaldehyde (606 g) and phenol (189 g) in the presence of 46% aq. potassium hydroxide solution (25.5 g) at a reaction temperature of 84°C, preceded by heating at a rate of about 1°C per minute. The reaction was continued at 84° C. until the acid resistance of the resin reached 4 and most of the phenol was consumed. Next, urea (241 g) was added and the mixture was cooled.

Acid resistance (AT) shows how many times a given volume of binder can be diluted with acid without clouding the mixture (precipitation of the binder). Sulfuric acid was used to determine the stopping criterion in the production of the binder, and an acid resistance of less than 4 indicates completion of the binder reaction. To measure AT, a titration solution was prepared by diluting 2.5 ml of conc. sulfuric acid (> 99%) 1 l of ion-exchange water. 5 ml of the test binder was further titrated at room temperature with this titration solution, keeping the binder in motion by manual shaking; if desired, a magnetic stirrer and a magnetic stir bar can be used. The titration is continued until a slight turbidity appears, which does not disappear when the binder is shaken.

Acid resistance (AT) is calculated by dividing the amount of acid used for titration (ml) by the amount of sample (ml):

AT = (Volume of Titration Solution Used (mL)) / (Volume of Sample (mL))

Using the resulting urea-modified phenol-formaldehyde resin, a binder is prepared by adding 25% aq. ammonia solution (90 ml) and ammonium sulfate (13.2 g) and then water (1.30 kg). Next, the solids content of the binder was measured as described above, and the mixture was diluted with the required amount of water and silane (Momentive VS-142) to study the mechanical strength (15% binder solids solution, 0.5% silane from binder solids).

Binders in accordance with the present invention

For the binders of the present invention, the following properties were determined.

Reagents

Gelatins (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 and 180 Bloom; Imagel LB, type B, 122 Bloom) were obtained from Gelita AG. Tannorouge chestnut tannin was sourced from Brouwland bvba. Agar agar (05039), gellan gum (P8169), citrus peel pectin (P9135), kelp sodium alginate (A0682), sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (419303), soluble starch (S9765) and sodium hydroxide were obtained from Sigma Aldrich. For simplicity, these reagents were assumed to be completely pure and anhydrous.

Solids content of binder components, determination

The content of each of the components in a given binder solution prior to curing was calculated from the dry weight of the components. You can use the following formula:

Mechanical strength studies (bar tests), procedure

The mechanical strength of the binders was investigated in the test bars. For each binder, 8–16 bars were made from a mixture of binder and stone wool granules formed during the spinning of stone wool. The pellets are particles having the same melt composition as the stone wool fibers and the pellets are generally considered to be spinning waste. The granules used in the composition of the bars had a size of 0.25–0.50 mm.

The binder solution was prepared as described in the examples below. For relatively slow setting binders, a sample binder solution (16.0 g for binders with 10-15% binder component solids; 32.0 g for binders with 5% binder component solids) was mixed well with the granules (80.0 g). The resulting mixture was evenly distributed over four compartments in a heat-resistant silicone mold to obtain small bars (4 × 5 compartments per mold; top compartment size: length = 5.6 cm, width = 2.5 cm; bottom compartment size: length = 5 .3 cm, width = 2.2 cm; compartment height = 1.1 cm). For relatively fast curing binders, a sample binder solution (8.0 g for binders with 10-15% solids of the binder components and 16.0 g for binders with 5% solids of the binder components) was mixed well with the granules (40.0 g, prewarmed to 35–40°C before use) and the resulting mixture was evenly distributed over only two compartments. Upon receipt of each bar, the mixtures placed in the compartments were pressed, if necessary, and then leveled with a plastic spatula to obtain a flat surface of the bar. Thus, 8–16 bars were obtained from each binder. The resulting bars were further cured at room temperature for 1-2 days, or first cured for 15 minutes at the oven temperatures indicated in the tables below, and then for 1-2 days at room temperature. If after this time curing was insufficient, the bars were cured for 1 day at 35°C. Next, the bars were carefully removed from the containers, turned upside down and left for a day at room temperature for complete curing. Half of the 8–16 bars were aged in an autoclave (15 min / 120°C / 0.12 MPa (1.2 bar)).

After drying for 1-2 days, all bars were broken in a 3-point bend test (test speed: 10.0 mm/min; break rate: 50%; nominal force: 30 MPa (30 N/mm ² ); distance: 40 mm, max deflection 20 mm, nominal modulus of elasticity 10,000 MPa (10,000 N/mm ² )) on a Bent Tram to test their mechanical strength. The bars were placed in the apparatus with the "top surface" facing up (ie, a surface with a length = 5.6 cm, a width = 2.5 cm).

Loss on ignition (LOI) bars

Loss on ignition (LOI) of the bars was measured in small foil containers when heated to 580°C. For each measurement, the foil container was first heated at 580° C. for 15 minutes to remove all organic matter. The foil containers were allowed to cool to ambient temperature and then weighed. Four bars (usually after breaking in a 3-point bend test) were placed in a foil container and weighed together. The foil container containing the bars was further heated at 580° C. for 30 minutes, allowed to cool to ambient temperature, and then weighed again. The LOI was then calculated using the following formula:

Binder compositions according to the present invention

Binder example, point 1

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 7.5 g) in water (42.5 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 5.1) was obtained. The resulting solution was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, point 3

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 180 Bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15-30 min until a clear solution (pH 5.2) was obtained. The resulting solution was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, item 5

A mixture of gelatin (Imagel LB, type B, 122 Bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 5.1) was obtained. The resulting solution was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, point 7

To water (50.0 g) with vigorous stirring at 85°C was added in portions of sodium carboxymethylcellulose (2.63 g) over about 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for another 0.5–1 h at 85°C until a clear solution (pH 8.4) was obtained. The resulting solution was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, point 8

In water (50.0 g) with vigorous stirring at 85°C was added in portions of agar-agar (2.63 g) over about 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for another 0.5–1 h at 85°C until a clear solution was obtained.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained. Then a portion of the above agar-agar solution (19.6 g, thus in fact 0.98 g agar-agar and 18.6 g water) was added and stirring was continued at 50°C for another 5 min (pH 5.3) . The resulting solution was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, item 9

Gellan gum (2.63 g) was added portionwise to water (50.0 g) with vigorous stirring at 85° C. over about 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for another 0.5–1 h at 85°C until a clear solution was obtained.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained. A portion of the above gellan gum solution (19.6 g, thus effectively 0.98 g gellan gum and 18.6 g water) was then added and stirring was continued at 50° C. for another 5 min (pH 5.3). The resulting solution was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, item 10

Pectin (2.63 g) was added in portions to water (50.0 g) with vigorous stirring at 85° C. over about 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for another 0.5–1 h at 85°C until a clear solution was obtained.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained. Then a part of the above pectin solution (19.6 g, thus in fact 0.98 g pectin and 18.6 g water) was added and stirring was continued at 50° C. for another 5 min (pH 4.8). The resulting solution was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, point 11

Sodium alginate (2.63 g) was added portionwise to water (50.0 g) with vigorous stirring at 85° C. over about 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for another 0.5–1 h at 85°C until a clear solution was obtained.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 8.82 g) in water (50.0 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15-30 min until a clear solution was obtained. Then a part of the above sodium alginate solution (19.6 g, thus in fact 0.98 g of sodium alginate and 18.6 g of water) was added and stirring was continued at 50°C for another 5 min (pH 5.3). The resulting solution was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, item 12

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for another 5–10 min to obtain a dark red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 8.00 g) in water (72.0 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 4.8) was obtained. Next, 1 M NaOH (3.50 g) (pH 9.3) was added, followed by a portion of the above chestnut tannin solution (3.60 g; thus effectively 0.80 g of chestnut tannin). After stirring for another 1–2 minutes at 50°C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 9.2) was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, point 13

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for another 5–10 min to obtain a dark red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 4.9) was obtained. Next, 1 M NaOH (4.00 g) (pH 9.1) was added, followed by a portion of the above chestnut tannin solution (4.50 g; thus effectively 1.00 g of chestnut tannin). After stirring for another 1–2 minutes at 50°C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 9.1) was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, paragraph 16

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for another 5–10 min to obtain a dark red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 180 Bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 4.8) was obtained. Next, 1 M NaOH (3.50 g) (pH 9.2) was added, followed by a portion of the above chestnut tannin solution (4.50 g; thus effectively 1.00 g of chestnut tannin). After stirring for another 1–2 minutes at 50°C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 9.2) was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, item 18

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for another 5–10 min to obtain a dark red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 122 Bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 4.7) was obtained. Next, 1 M NaOH (3.50 g) (pH 9.2) was added, followed by a portion of the above chestnut tannin solution (4.50 g; thus effectively 1.00 g of chestnut tannin). After stirring for another 1–2 minutes at 50°C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 9.2) was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, paragraph 20

In water (50.0 g) with vigorous stirring at 85°C was added in portions of agar-agar (2.63 g) over about 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for another 0.5–1 h at 85°C until a clear solution was obtained.

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for another 5–10 min to obtain a dark red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 4.6) was obtained. 1 M NaOH (4.00 g) (pH 9.1) was then added, followed by a portion of the above chestnut tannin solution (4.50 g; thus effectively 1.00 g of chestnut tannin) and then a portion of the above agar- agar (20.0 g; thus, effectively 1.00 g of agar-agar). After stirring for another 1–2 minutes at 50°C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 8.8) was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, item 21

Pectin (2.63 g) was added in portions to water (50.0 g) with vigorous stirring at 85° C. over about 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for another 0.5–1 h at 85°C until a clear solution was obtained.

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for another 5–10 min to obtain a dark red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 4.6) was obtained. 1 M NaOH (4.50 g) (pH 9.6) was then added, followed by a portion of the above chestnut tannin solution (4.50 g; thus effectively 1.00 g chestnut tannin) and then a portion of the above pectin solution ( 20.0 g; thus, effectively 1.00 g pectin). After stirring for another 1–2 minutes at 50°C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 8.9) was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, paragraph 22

Sodium alginate (2.63 g) was added portionwise to water (50.0 g) with vigorous stirring at 85° C. over about 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for another 0.5–1 h at 85°C until a clear solution was obtained.

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for another 5–10 min to obtain a dark red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 4.6) was obtained. 1 M NaOH (4.00 g) (pH 9.2) was then added, followed by a portion of the above chestnut tannin solution (4.50 g; thus effectively 1.00 g chestnut tannin) and then a portion of the above sodium alginate solution (20.0 g; thus, effectively 1.00 g of sodium alginate). After stirring for another 1–2 minutes at 50°C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 9.0) was used in subsequent experiments.

Binder example, paragraph 23

Soluble starch (2.63 g) was added portionwise to water (50.0 g) with vigorous stirring at 85° C. over about 15 minutes. Stirring was continued for another 0.5–1 h at 85°C until a clear solution was obtained.

To 1 M NaOH (15.75 g) stirred at room temperature was added chestnut tannin (4.50 g). Stirring was continued at room temperature for another 5–10 min to obtain a dark red-brown solution.

A mixture of gelatin (Speisegelatin, type A, porcine, 120 Bloom, 10.0 g) in water (56.7 g) was stirred at 50°C for about 15–30 min until a clear solution (pH 4.8) was obtained. 1 M NaOH (4.00 g) (pH 9.1) was then added, followed by a portion of the above chestnut tannin solution (4.50 g; thus effectively 1.00 g chestnut tannin) and then a portion of the above soluble starch solution (20.0 g; thus, effectively 1.00 g of soluble starch). After stirring for another 1–2 minutes at 50°C, the resulting brown mixture (pH 8.8) was used in subsequent experiments.

Table 1-1. Reference binder

Example A Binder Properties Binder solids (%) 15.0 Reaction Loss (%) 28.5 pH 9.6 Bar curing conditions Temperature (°C/1h) 200 Bar properties Mechanical strength, without aging (kN) 0.39 Mechanical strength, with aging (kN) 0.28 LOI, no aging (%) 2.8

Table 1-2. Polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, other hydrocolloids

Example one 2 3 four 5 6 7 eight 9 ten eleven Binder Composition Polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid (wt%) Gelatin, Speisegelatin, Bloom 120 100 100 - - - - - 90 90 90 90 Gelatin, Speisegelatin, Bloom 180 - - 100 100 - - - - - - - Gelatin, Imagel LB, Bloom 122 - - - - 100 100 - - - - - Pectin - - - - - - - - - ten - sodium alginate - - - - - - - - - - ten Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose - - - - - - 100 - - - - Other hydrocolloid (wt%) agar agar - - - - - - - ten - - - gellan gum - - - - - - - - ten - - Soluble Starch - - - - - - - - - - - Crosslinker (wt%) ^[a] chestnut tannin - - - - - - - - - - - Base (wt%) ^[b] Sodium hydroxide - - - - - - - - - - - Mixing the binder and obtaining bars Mixing temperature (°C) fifty fifty fifty fifty fifty fifty 85 50/85 50/85 50/85 50/85 Solids content of binder components (%) 15.0 10.0 15.0 10.0 15.0 10.0 5.0 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 pH 5.1 4.9 5.2 4.9 5.1 5.0 8.4 5.3 5.3 4.8 5.3 Preheated pellets (35-40°C) - - Yes Yes - - - - - - - Curing temperature (°C/15 min to room temp.) room pace. room pace. room pace. room pace. room pace. room pace. room pace. room pace. room pace. room pace. room pace. Bar properties Mechanical strength, without aging (kN) 0.31 0.24 0.28 0.13 0.20 0.13 0.13 0.11 0.09 0.13 0.13 Mechanical strength, with aging (kN) 0.30 0.28 0.27 0.17 0.22 0.15 0.15 0.15 0.11 0.14 0.22 LOI, no aging (%) 2.9 1.9 2.9 1.9 2.8 1.9 1.9 2.4 2.5 2.4 2.3

^[a] from the hydrocolloid(s). ^[b] from hydrocolloid(s) + crosslinker.

Table 1-3. Polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, other hydrocolloids, crosslinkers

Example 12 13 fourteen fifteen 16 17 eighteen 19 twenty 21 22 23 Binder Composition Polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid (wt%) Gelatin, Speisegelatin, Bloom 120 100 100 100 100 - - - - 91 91 91 91 Gelatin, Speisegelatin, Bloom 180 - - - - 100 100 - - - - - - Gelatin, Imagel LB, Bloom 122 - - - - - - 100 100 - - - - Pectin - - - - - - - - - 9 - - sodium alginate - - - - - - - - - - 9 - Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose - - - - - - - - - - - - Other hydrocolloid (wt%) agar agar - - - - - - - - 9 - - - gellan gum - - - - - - - - - - - - Soluble Starch - - - - - - - - - - - 9 Crosslinker (wt%) ^[a] chestnut tannin ten ten ten ten ten ten ten ten 9 9 9 9 Base (wt%) ^[b] Sodium hydroxide 2.7 2.6 2.6 2.6 2.4 2.4 2.4 2.4 2.4 2.5 2.4 2.4 Mixing the binder and obtaining bars Mixing temperature (°C) fifty fifty fifty fifty fifty fifty fifty fifty 50/85 50/85 50/85 50/85 Solids content of binder components (%) 10.4 15.0 15.0 15.0 15.1 15.1 15.1 15.1 12.9 12.9 12.9 12.9 pH 9.2 9.1 9.1 9.1 9.2 9.2 9.2 9.2 8.8 8.9 9.0 8.8 Preheated pellets (35-40°C) - - - - Yes Yes - - - - - - Curing temperature (°C/15 min to room temp.) room pace. room pace. 35 55 35 55 35 55 room pace. room pace. room pace. room pace. Bar properties Mechanical strength, without aging (kN) 0.16 0.23 0.26 0.27 0.30 0.27 0.25 0.27 0.16 0.18 0.17 0.18 Mechanical strength, with aging (kN) 0.15 0.21 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.31 0.27 0.26 0.15 0.13 0.15 0.18 LOI, no aging (%) 1.9 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.4 2.6 2.4 2.4

^[a] from the hydrocolloid(s). ^[b] from hydrocolloid(s) + crosslinker

Claims (78)

1. A method for producing a mineral wool product, which includes the steps of contacting mineral fibers with a binder composition containing at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid, and curing the binder composition, wherein the step of curing the binder composition occurs at a temperature of 5-95°C . 2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the curing step of the binder composition takes place at a temperature of 10-80°C, eg 20-60°C, eg 40-50°C. 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose. 4. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, characterized in that the binder composition contains at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin, and at least one other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gums, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose. 5. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 3, 4, characterized in that gelatin is present in the aqueous composition of the binder in an amount of 10-95 wt.%, for example 20-80 wt.%, for example 30-70 wt.%, for example 40-60 wt.%, by weight polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids. 6. The method according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid have complementary charges. 7. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-6, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is present in the aqueous composition of the binder in an amount of 1-50, for example 2.5-25 wt.%, based on the weight of the aqueous composition of the binder. 8. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-7, characterized in that the binder composition is not a thermosetting binder. 9. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-8, characterized in that the binder composition does not contain poly(meth)acrylic acid, poly(meth)acrylic acid salt or poly(meth)acrylic acid ester. 10. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-9, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer. 11. The method according to paragraphs. 1-10, characterized in that the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the binder composition additionally contains at least one phenol- and/or quinone-containing compound, for example, tannin, selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins - proanthocyanidins, hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and / or tannin obtained from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora. 12. The method according to paragraphs. 1-11, characterized in that the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the binder composition additionally contains at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase EC 2.3.2.13, protein disulfide isomerase EC 5.3.4.1; thiol oxidase EC 1.8.3.2; 13. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-12, characterized in that the binder composition does not contain formaldehyde. 14. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-13, characterized in that the binder composition essentially consists of: - at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid; - optionally at least one oil; optionally at least one pH adjuster; - optionally at least one cross-linking agent; optionally at least one antifouling agent; optionally at least one anti-swelling agent; - water. 15. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-14, characterized in that it does not include cross-linking of the binder composition. 16. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-14, characterized in that it includes cross-linking of the binder composition. 17. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 1-16, characterized in that the curing process includes a drying process, in particular by blowing air or gas over or through the mineral wool product or by increasing the temperature. 18. A mineral wool product obtained by curing a binder composition containing at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid at a temperature of 5-95°C. 19. A mineral wool product according to claim 18, characterized in that the loss on ignition is in the range of 0.1-25.0%, for example 0.3-18.0%, for example 0.5-12.0%, for example 0.7-8.0 wt.%. 20. The use of at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid in a binder composition for the manufacture of a mineral wool product, where the binder composition is capable of curing at a temperature of 5-95°C. 21. Use according to claim 20, characterized in that the binder composition is capable of curing at a temperature of 10-80°C, eg 20-60°C, eg 40-50°C. 22. Use according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose. 23. Application according to any one of paragraphs. 20-22, characterized in that at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids are used, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin, and at least one other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, derivatives cellulose, such as carboxymethyl cellulose. 24. Application according to paragraphs. 22, 23, characterized in that gelatin is used in an amount of 10-95 wt.%, for example 20-80 wt.%, for example 30-70 wt.%, for example 40-60 wt.%, based on the mass of polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids. 25. Use according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid have complementary charges. 26. Application according to any one of paragraphs. 20-25, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid in the aqueous binder composition for the mineral wool product is used in an amount of 1-50, for example 2.5-15 wt.%, based on the weight of the aqueous binder composition. 27. Application according to any one of paragraphs. 20-26, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is used in an aqueous binder composition for the production of a mineral wool product that is not a thermosetting binder. 28. Application according to any one of paragraphs. 20-27, characterized in that the polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is used in the binder composition for the production of a mineral wool product that does not contain poly(meth)acrylic acid, poly(meth)acrylic acid salt or poly(meth)acrylic acid ester. 29. Application according to any one of paragraphs. 20-28, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer. 30. Application according to paragraphs. 20-29, characterized in that the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the binder composition additionally contains at least one phenol and / or quinone-containing compound, for example, tannin selected from one or more components of the group consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins - proanthocyanidins, hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and / or tannin obtained from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora. 31. Application according to paragraphs. 20-30, characterized in that the binder composition contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the binder composition additionally contains at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase EC 2.3.2.13, protein disulfide isomerase EC 5.3.4.1; thiol oxidase EC 1.8.3.2; 32. Application according to any one of paragraphs. 20-31, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is used in the binder composition for the production of a formaldehyde-free mineral wool product. 33. Application according to any one of paragraphs. 20-32, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is used in an aqueous binder composition for the production of a mineral wool product, which essentially consists of: - at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid; - optionally at least one oil; optionally at least one pH adjuster; - optionally at least one cross-linking agent; optionally at least one antifouling agent; optionally at least one anti-swelling agent; - water. 34. Application according to any one of paragraphs. 20-33, characterized in that it does not include cross-linking of the binder composition. 35. Application according to any one of paragraphs. 20-33, characterized in that it includes cross-linking of the binder composition. 36. The product of mineral wool, obtained in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 20-35. 37. A mineral wool product according to claim 36, characterized in that the loss on ignition is in the range of 0.1-25.0%, for example 0.3-18.0%, for example 0.5-12.0%, for example 0.7-8.0 wt.%. 38. A method for bonding the surfaces of two or more elements to each other, wherein at least one of the two or more elements is a mineral wool element, said mineral wool elements being bonded with a mineral wool binder, the method comprising the following steps: - provision of two or more elements, - applying an adhesive to one or more surfaces to be joined before, during or after bringing the surfaces to be joined into contact with each other, - curing the adhesive at a temperature of 5-95°C, and the adhesive contains at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid. 39. The method according to claim 38, characterized in that the two or more elements are two or more mineral wool elements. 40. The method of claim 38, wherein the two or more elements include at least one element that is not a mineral wool element. 41. The method of claim. 40, characterized in that at least one element, which is not a mineral wool element, is selected from the group consisting of a fleece, such as a fiberglass fleece, a building structure, such as a wall, ceiling or roof. 42. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-41, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of gelatin, pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose. 43. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-42, characterized in that the adhesive contains at least two polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids, wherein one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is gelatin, and at least one other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is selected from the group consisting of pectin, alginate, carrageenan, gum arabic, xanthan gum, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose. 44. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 42, 43, characterized in that gelatin is present in the adhesive in an amount of 10-95 wt.%, for example 20-80 wt.%, for example 30-70 wt.%, for example 40-60 wt.%, from the mass of polyelectrolyte hydrocolloids. 45. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-44, characterized in that one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and at least the other polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid have complementary charges. 46. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-45, characterized in that the adhesive can be cured at a temperature of 10-80°C, such as 20-60°C, such as 40-50°C. 47. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-46, characterized in that the adhesive is not a thermoset adhesive. 48. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-47, characterized in that the adhesive does not contain poly(meth)acrylic acid, poly(meth)acrylic acid salt or poly(meth)acrylic acid ester. 49. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-48, characterized in that at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid is a biopolymer or a modified biopolymer. 50. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-49, characterized in that the adhesive contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the adhesive additionally contains at least one phenol - and / or quinone-containing compound, for example, tannin, selected from one or more components of the group , consisting of tannic acid, condensed tannins - proanthocyanidins, hydrolysable tannins, gallotannins, ellagitannins, complex tannins and / or tannin, obtained from one or more of oak, chestnut, staghorn sumac and tellima grandiflora. 51. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-50, characterized in that the adhesive contains proteins of animal origin, including collagen, gelatin and hydrolyzed gelatin, and the adhesive additionally contains at least one enzyme selected from the group consisting of transglutaminase EC 2.3.2.13, protein disulfide isomerase EC 5.3. 4.1, thiol oxidase EC 1.8.3.2, polyphenol oxidase EC 1.14.18.1, in particular catechol oxidase, tyrosine oxidase and phenol oxidase, lysyl oxidase EC 1.4.3.13 and peroxidase EC 1.11.1.7. 52. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-51, characterized in that the adhesive does not contain formaldehyde. 53. The method according to any one of paragraphs. 38-52, characterized in that the adhesive essentially consists of - at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid; - optionally at least one oil; optionally at least one pH adjuster; - optionally at least one cross-linking agent; optionally at least one antifouling agent; optionally at least one anti-swelling agent; - water. 54. A product containing two or more elements bonded with an adhesive containing at least one polyelectrolyte hydrocolloid and cured at a temperature of 5-95 ° C, at least one of the two or more elements is a mineral wool element, and these elements from mineral wool contain binder of mineral wool.