Abstract: Polyacid (P(MAH-co-AA)) with wide molecular weight distribution was synthesized via one step in situ copolymerization of acrylic acid (AA) and maleic anhydride (MAH) using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) ferrous sulfate (FeSO4) as redox initiator. By measuring the gel content of polycondensation products of P(MAH-co-AA) and lignosulphonate(LS), the effects of composition (mass ratio of AA to MAH) in P(MAH-co-AA), acidity of the reaction solution, addition oftriethanolamine (TEA) on the crosslinking degree were investigated. The reactivity of sodium lignosulphonate (LSS) and ammonium lignosulphonate (LSA) was studied. Results showed that LS could be used to replace some polyols and produce cost effective aldehyde free adhesives. The curing degree could be improved by increasing the MAH content and acidity of the adhesive and choosing LSA.