Some properties of eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana L.) particleboard panels made using modified starch as binder

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate physical and mechanical properties of experimental panels manufactured from eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana L.) using modified starch as binder. Modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), internal bond strength (IB), hardness and dimensional stability in the form of thickness swelling and water absorption in addition to surface quality of the samples were tested. Panels were manufactured at three density levels, which are 0.60 g/cm3, 0.70 g/cm3 and 0.80 g/cm3. The highest MOE, MOR and IB values for the samples having 0.80 g/cm3 density were determined as 2207.16 MPa, 15.17 MPa and 0.87 MPa, respectively. Thickness swelling values of the samples soaked in water for 2 h ranged from 15.38 % to 23.23 %. Micrographs taken on the samples using scanning electron microscope revealed that starch was uniformly distributed within the particles. Based on the findings in this study, it appears that eastern red cedar would have a potential as a raw material to manufacture particleboard panel using modified starch as green adhesive with accepted physical and mechanical properties.