Wood-based panels: Particleboard, fibreboards and oriented strand board

Abstract

Wood-based panels have become an important component in the wood processing chain. From a materials viewpoint wood-based panels provide a way of realizing value from materials that are not suitable for other uses, or that are residue streams from other processes. However these panels are now an integral part of the wood products market, meeting requirements that were once met by solid wood. The ability to produce panels of larger sizes reduces the number of components needed while the uniformity of panel properties give a more consistent performance. The panels are used extensively in construction and in the furniture, cabinet and joinery industries, while the ability to engineer these products to meet specific performance requirements has been a significant factor in their growth. The technology for producing these panels has developed significantly, in particular with the introduction of continuous pressing providing new levels of product uniformity.