Binding in the wet stage is weak, but measurable. This is because lignosulphonates remain free to move on or off of the surfaces  they are attached to when water is present.
However, as drying occurs the connections between the lignosulphonate and the surfaces that it is adjacent to become much stronger. The relatively large size of the molecule allows it to span gaps between particles. In the wet phase the molecule has aligned itself in the most favourable position - in the dry phase it locks into that position giving strong bonds.
Borregaard's binders have a long history of use in a variety of areas including:
- Animal feed pellets, blocks, and cubes
- Limestone and gypsum granulation
- Sand cores for foundary use
- Soil stabilisation/road binder
- Resin replacement in fiber board
- Pressing ceramic tiles
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