Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) adhesive, also known as PVA glue or white glue, is a type of adhesive that is widely used for bonding various materials together. It is a water-soluble synthetic polymer that has excellent adhesive properties, making it suitable for a range of applications. Here are some key characteristics and uses of PVA adhesive:

Characteristics:
1. Water Solubility: PVA adhesive is soluble in water, which means that it can be easily diluted and cleaned up with water. This property makes it convenient for both application and cleanup.
2. Non-Toxic: PVA adhesive is generally considered non-toxic and safe for use in various applications, including crafts and school projects.
3. Versatility: It can bond a wide range of materials, including paper, wood, fabric, leather, cardboard, and some plastics. However, its performance might vary depending on the specific materials being bonded.
4. Drying Time: PVA adhesive typically has a relatively longer drying time compared to some other adhesives. It needs time to form a strong bond as the water content evaporates.
5. Limited Heat Resistance: PVA glue is not suitable for applications that involve exposure to high temperatures or prolonged moisture, as it can lose its adhesive properties under such conditions.

Uses:
1. Crafts and Hobbies: PVA adhesive is commonly used in arts and crafts projects, such as paper crafting, collage, and creating homemade decorations.
2. Woodworking: PVA glue can be used for woodworking projects that don't involve high stress or exposure to moisture. It's often used for joining wood pieces together in furniture assembly and other woodworking applications.
3. Bookbinding: PVA adhesive is used in bookbinding to attach paper to book covers and bind pages together.
4. School Projects: PVA glue is a staple in school settings for projects that involve paper, cardboard, and other lightweight materials.
5. Textile Applications: In some cases, PVA adhesive is used in textile and fabric applications, such as for stiffening fabrics or adhering patches.

While PVA adhesive is versatile and easy to work with, it might not be suitable for all applications. For projects that require higher strength, greater durability, resistance to moisture, or heat resistance, other types of adhesives such as epoxy, cyanoacrylate (super glue), or polyurethane adhesive might be more appropriate.