The suitability of fast growing tree species for particleboard production

Abstract

This study evaluates the suitability of using Kelempayan (Neolamarckia cadamba), a fast growing tropical species for the production of particleboard. Boards were pressed at various board density levels using different phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin contents, under various hot press temperatures. Modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), internal bond (IB) and thickness swelling (TS) of the boards were determined based on Malaysian Standards (MS) for particleboard. The results showed that boards made from the density of 700 kg/m3 and 11% resin at 165˚C of hot press temperature showed superior values of MOE, MOR and IB. The boards passed the minimum requirements for furniture and structural in dry condition. The lowest percentage of TS showed by the boards made from density of 500 kg/m3 and 11% resin at 155 and 165˚C hot press temperature. The boards met the requirements for furniture in dry and humid, and structural in dry. This study demonstrated that Kelempayan species were potentially useful for the production of particleboard.