Preparation of High‐Pressure Laminate With Bio‐Based Fructose‐ <scp>HMF</scp> ‐Amine Impregnation Resin

ABSTRACT The production of high‐pressure laminates (HPL) still relies heavily on the use of fossil‐based phenol‐formaldehyde (PF) resins. Research on more sustainable, bio‐based impregnation resins for HPL is scarce, with most studies focusing on partially replacing phenol with natural phenolic resources. In pursuit of a more sustainable alternative, this study explores the application of an impregnation resin formulated from carbohydrate‐based compounds combined with an amine crosslinker, representing a novel approach in HPL production. Recycled kraft paper was treated with this resin in a pilot‐scale impregnation line to evaluate its applicability in HPL production process. Throughout the process, samples were collected and analyzed for key process parameters commonly monitored in the laminate industry, including the resin load, volatile content, and mass loss during pressing. The impregnated paper produced was used to fabricate a laboratory‐scale HPL panel. While water resistance of the material requires improvement, the samples demonstrated excellent mechanical properties that met the industry standard requirements for HPL compact panels. Notably, the bio‐based samples even outperformed conventional PF‐HPL when measured in the cross direction. These results highlight the potential of bio‐based resins as a promising alternative to conventional PF systems, marking an important step toward more sustainable HPL production.