The Development of Adhesives and Preservatives in Industrial Wood Materials: From the 20th Century to the Present

Wood stands out among sustainable construction materials due to its environmental advantages; however, adhesives and preservatives play a strategic role in enabling its large-scale industrial use. Nevertheless, the environmental and health risks associated with these chemicals have created significant turning points in the historical development of the wood industry. This study aims to examine the development of adhesives and preservatives used in industrial wood products from the 20th century to the present, discuss their environmental impacts, and evaluate future orientations from a sustainability perspective. The scope covers the technological evolution from traditional mechanical joints to synthetic bonding systems that coexist with mechanical connections, and from toxic preservatives to bio-based and low-emission solutions. Methodologically, a critical narrative literature review was undertaken to compare relevant peer-reviewed research and primary regulatory documents. The findings reveal that historical concerns regarding formaldehyde emissions and hazardous wood-preservative chemicals have stimulated research on bio-based adhesives, resin formulations with low emissions of volatile organic compounds (low-VOC resins), and environmentally safer preservation approaches. Moreover, modern engineered wood products, including cross-laminated timber (CLT), glued laminated timber (glulam), and laminated veneer lumber (LVL), continue to rely on adhesive systems whose performance and emission characteristics are important for sustainable construction. In conclusion, the future of the wood industry will be shaped by the development and wider industrial validation of partially or fully bio-based binders, the development of innovative preservative systems enhanced with nanomaterials, and the guiding influence of international regulations. This transformation is expected to make a critical contribution to both the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and green building policies.