The potential of utilization of alder wood fibers In medium density fiberboard production

Abstract

In this investigation, 36 laboratory medium density fiberboard (MDF) panels were produced using Alder wood fibers. Variables factors were steaming time ( 5, 10 and 15 minutes), press time (4 and 6 minutes) and resin consumption (9 and 11%). The physical and mechanical properties of panels were measured and analyzed. The results indicated that the maximum MOR was observed panels produced applying 6 minutes press time and resin consumption of 11%. The maximum Internal Bonding (IB) was related to panels made employing steaming time of 15 minutes and resin consumption of 11%. However, test panels produced at 6 minutes press time showed minimum of thickness swelling. The results indicated that the MDF boards produced from alder wood fibers exhibit desirable physical & mechanical properties were above than EN standard requirement. Consequently application of alder wood fibers to improve physical & mechanical properties of MDF panels which are produced from nonwood materials and agricaltural residues is recommended.

Keywords

• MEDIUM DENSITY FIBERBOARD
• steaming time
• PRESS TEMPERATURE
• PRESS TIME
• Physical & Mechanical Properties