Recent Advances in Eco-Friendly Wood-Based Composites: Fabrication, Applications and Perspectives

Dear Colleagues,

Conventional wood-based composites are predominantly produced using synthetic adhesives that contain formaldehyde, such as urea–formaldehyde, phenol–formaldehyde, and melamine–formaldehyde resins. These adhesives are typically synthesized from petroleum-derived raw materials, including urea, phenol, and melamine. Owing to their favorable characteristics—such as strong bonding performance, thermal stability, water resistance, and cost-effectiveness—formaldehyde-based resins have been widely adopted in the wood-based panel industry for decades. However, the extensive use of these synthetic resins presents significant drawbacks, primarily related to the release of hazardous volatile organic compounds (VOCs), most notably free formaldehyde, during manufacturing, processing, and even the service life of finished wood products. Chronic exposure to formaldehyde emissions has been linked to a range of adverse health effects, including mucosal irritation, respiratory issues, and cancer. In addition to human health implications, VOC emissions from formaldehyde-based adhesives also contribute to environmental pollution, including the formation of ground-level ozone and photochemical smog. These issues have prompted growing concern among consumers, researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, spurring demand for safer, more sustainable alternatives to conventional adhesive systems.

In light of the global shift toward a circular and low-carbon bioeconomy, driven by rising environmental consciousness and the enforcement of stricter regulations on VOC emissions, there is an increasing demand for developing sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives for the production of wood-based composites. Key strategies to meet these emerging demands include the formulation of innovative bio-based adhesive systems, the optimization and valorization of lignocellulosic biomass, and the utilization of non-traditional, renewable raw materials as viable substitutes for fossil-derived components.

This Special Issue, “Recent Advances in Eco-Friendly Wood-Based Composites: Fabrication, Applications, and Perspectives”, aims to highlight the latest scientific and technological developments in the design, processing, and application of sustainable, high-performance wood-based materials. We invite the submission of high-quality original research articles and comprehensive reviews that address, but are not limited to, the following topics: design and fabrication of eco-friendly wood-based composite materials; development of sustainable, bio-based adhesive formulations; innovative strategies for reducing formaldehyde and VOC emissions; production and performance of binderless wood-based panels; advances in wood–plastic composites (WPCs) and hybrid materials; composites based on natural matrices and non-wood natural fibers; recycling and circular processing technologies for wood-based composites; thermal and chemical modification techniques for improved durability; integration of nanomaterials to enhance wood composite properties; valorization of bark and other forestry residues for high-value applications; utilization of non-wood lignocellulosic biomass in composite production; and emerging functionalities and advanced applications of engineered wood-based composites.

We cordially invite contributions from researchers, wood science experts, and professionals across related disciplines in the form of original research articles or comprehensive review papers.

Prof. Dr. Petar Antov
Dr. Dorota Dukarska
Dr. Jakub Kawalerczyk
Guest Editors

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• wood-based composite
• adhesives
• formaldehyde emissions
• natural fibers