Polyvinyl Alcohol Adhesive (PVOH) 100g

Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVOH, PVA, PVAI) is produced by hydrolysing polyvinyl acetate (PVAc, PVA), replacing the acetate groups with hydroxyl groups.  The resulting powder can be mixed similar manner to starch paste, producing a neutral pH adhesive that has improved qualities over polyvinyl acetate.  The application of polyvinyl alcohol produces a strong bond that remains very flexible over time and can be more readily reversed using water.   It dries clear.  The working open time is similar to a starch paste.  As a powder or mixed, it has a long self life as it doesn’t promote mould growth.

The term PVA can at times be misleading as it is sometimes used for both polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinyl acetate.

Mixing instructions:

1. In warm water at a ratio of 125ml water to 100g PVOH, add the powder by slowly sprinkling on the surface the water, while stirring vigorously.

2. PVOH powder will readily clump so if clumps form, continue stirring breaking up the clumps.  

3. Using a microwave, heat up the solution at med-low power for 30 seconds, stir, heat for another 30 seconds and repeat if necessary until temperature reaches 90°C/194°F.  Don’t let it boil.  Alternatively, a double boiler setup on a stovetop can be used to heat the mixture.  Do not overheat as it will break down the bonds.

4. Let cool.  If a film appears on the surface, remove.  Store at room temperature.

This recipe will produce a medium viscosity adhesive.  The ratio can be altered to adjust the desired viscosity.

Tip:  When closing an adhesive container, add two pieces of plastic rap over the top so that the lid never is stuck to the container.