Abstract
In this research work effect of embedment of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the physical and mechanical properties of medium density fiberboard (MDF) have been investigated. The MWCNTs were embedded in urea formaldehyde resin (UF) at 0, 1.5%, 3% and 5% concentrations by weight for the manufacturing of nano-MDF. The addition of these nanoparticles enhanced thermal conductivity by 24.2% reduced curing time by 20% and controlled formaldehyde emission by 59.4%. The internal bonding (I.B), modulus elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), thickness swelling (Ts) and water absorption (WA) properties were improved significantly by 21.15%, 30.2%, 28.3%, 44.8% and 29% respectively as compared to controlled MDF.
Highlights
Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is a natural timber panel manufactured using wood homogeneous fibers or supplementary lingo cellulosic fibers and binders under pressure and temperature [1]
The multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) of nanotechnology compounds can deeply penetrate into the wood, effectively alter its surface chemistry and result in a high degree of protection against moisture and mechanical strength
From the IR absorption spectra, it was found that the Infrared (IR) absorption spectrum of multi walled carbon nanotubes with function group (MWCNTs-COOH) mainly consisted of hydroxyl group (–OH) stretch at 3200 and 3450 cm−1 and carboxyl group (–CO) stretch at 1450 cm−1, which are the characteristic peaks and could be found in the IR spectrum of the raw MWCNTs
Summary
Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is a natural timber panel manufactured using wood homogeneous fibers or supplementary lingo cellulosic fibers and binders under pressure and temperature [1]. Wood mix panels offer a uniform advantage to the structure, which can be important for many design applications [3]. Due to poor physical properties, i.e., water absorption and thickness swelling, and mechanical properties, i.e., internal bonding, modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture, MDF is no longer used in moist and hot environments. Some research has been conducted to improve the physical and mechanical performance of MDF by introducing melamine, wax and other additives [4]. The fibrous nature of wood has made it one of the most appropriate and versatile raw materials for various uses. Two properties restrict its much wider use, namely dimensional changes when subjected to fluctuating humidity and mechanical strength
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