Animal glues are used in leather manufacturing as a component of fat liquoring compounds which are used to impart softness to the leather, and as a filling agent to give added body to the leather. They are also used in finishing.
Low-grade animal glues are employed as a component with whiting, linseed oil, and rosin in composition for picture frames and decorative moldings on wood. High-grade glues are used to make molds for plaster casting. Medium — to low-grade animal glues with good foaming properties and adhesive qualities are utilized to produce strong, lightweight, cellular concrete.
Selected animal glues, also known as technical gelatins, are used in the production of protein hydrolysates for use as a source of protein in such products as cosmetics, shampoos, and skin care lotions and creams. Generally, the glue protein is hydrolyzed to a molecular weight below 2000 by use of enzyme, acid, or alkaline treatment.