This application is directed to methods of making a binder. In one embodiment, the method comprises mixing guar gum with water at a temperature greater than 145° F. A guar gum-water mixture is formed and then cooled to approximately 135-145° F. Ammonium sulfate and water are mixed with the guar gum-water mixture to form an ammonium sulfate-guar gum-water mixture. Urea is then mixed with the ammonium sulfate-guar gum-water mixture, forming a urea-ammonium sulfate-guar gum-water mixture. Water and methyl acryloid are added to the urea-ammonium sulfate-guar gum-water mixture to form the binder.
