Mechanical properties and resistance to fungi and termite in particleboard of eucalyptus

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the mechanical resistance and resistance to degrading agents in particleboard with eucalyptus wood residue and Urea-Formaldehyde, Phenol-Formaldehyde and Tannin-Formaldehyde adhesives at two temperatures (120 ºC and 140 ºC). The panels were produced in the dimensions of 40 cm × 40 cm × 1.25 cm (width, length and thickness, respectively); 10% and 20% of tannin (50% solution) was added to the pure adhesives. The following parameters were evaluated: Modulus of Rupture (MOR) and Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) in static bending, internal bonding, screw withdrawal, resistance to rotting fungi and dry wood termite. MOR showed better results at 120 °C. None of the treatments reached the minimum standard for the MOE, contrary to the internal bonding. The Trametes versicolor fungus caused greater mass loss to the tested panels when compared to Postia placenta. The proportion of tannin (90:10) in the phenolic adhesive contributed to a decrease in the resistance of the panel to the dry wood termite.