Characterization of nano particle added composite panels manufactured from Eastern redcedar

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate properties of experimental particleboard panels manufactured from Eastern redcedar ( Juniperus virginiana L.) using silicone dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticles added modified starch as a binder. Nine different types of panels were manufactured having nanoparticle contents of 0%, 1%, and 3% at three density levels of 600, 700, and 800 kg/m3. Based on the findings in this work, nanoparticle content above 1% in the panels adversely influenced their mechanical properties. It appears that using nano added modified starch along with only 2% urea formaldehyde adhesive resulted in accepted mechanical characteristics in the form of bending and internal bond strength of the samples. Since no wax or other additives were used in panel manufacture their dimensional stability needs to be improved. Very low formaldehyde emission value of 0.07 ppm was determined for the panels suggesting that such approach results in potential of manufacturing value-added composite products with insignificant environmental and health concerns.