Abstract: A method for controlling the production of formaldehyde resin compositions in which formaldehyde takes part in a reaction with one or a combination of co resin forming material (of the type phenol, urea, melamine) the method includes monitoring at least one of the formation of the reaction mixture and the course of the reaction by near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and adjusting the course of the reaction (when necessary) in accordance with the results of the spectroscopy to obtain optimum conditions for the reaction.

Abstract: Phenol/aldehyde resins particularly phenol/formaldehyde resins are manufactured by replacing a proportion of the phenol content by a mixture of at least two different natural materials having a phenolic content. The resulting resins which can be used in bonding composite materials are at least as effective as the resin using only phenol and more satisfactory environmentally.

Abstract: A formaldehyde binder containing at least one organic hydroxy compound, at least one amide, and water. This binder is suitable for use in preparing boards from lignocellulosic materials using adhesive based on formaldehyde.

Abstract: Urea and formaldehyde are mixed in a mole ratio of about 1:2. The mixture is condensed for 30 minutes at a pH of 7.0 to 7.4 and a temperature between 80.degree. and 85.degree. C. The condensation is continued at a pH of 4.8 to 5.8 at the same temperature until the viscosity reaches values between 15 and 50 mPa.s. The mole ratio of urea to formaldehyde is adjusted to a value of 1:1.80 to 1:1.90 by adding urea. The condensation is continued under acidic conditions at the same temperature, until the viscosity reaches values of 35 to 80 mPa.s. At a pH of 5.8 to 6.5, the mole ratio of urea to formaldehyde is adjusted to a value between 1.0:1.0 and 1.0:1.30 by adding urea. The temperature is allowed to drop freely. When the temperature has dropped to below 50.degree. C., the pH is adjusted to a value of 7.0 to 8.0.