Effects of Flat-Shaped Face Layer Particles and Core Layer Particles of Intentionally Greater Thickness on the Properties of Wood-Reduced Particleboard

Jan T. Benthien,Martin Ohlmeyer

doi:10.3390/fib8070046

Jan T. Benthien, Martin Ohlmeyer

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/fib8070046

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Abstract

Against the background of the intention to reduce the amount of wood used in the production of particleboard for economic reasons, the associated reduction in panel density and consequently the panel properties, the influence of the alternative use of flat-shaped face layer particles and core layer particles of intentionally greater thickness on the panel properties was investigated. Appropriate particles were made for this purpose, panels with typical (650 kg/m3) and reduced wood usage (500 kg/m3) were produced, and e.g., their bending properties and internal bond strength were determined. Particle size characterization was done with sieve analysis, image analysis (length and width measurement), and manual thickness gauging. It was found that the alternative use of the flat-shaped particle significantly increased the bending properties and thus the level of the reference can be achieved despite the reduced use of wood. The reason for the increased bending properties was assumed to be the higher strength of the particles themselves and the more effective adhesive bond between the particles. The increase in internal bond strength when using alternative particles could be attributed solely the different production history (e.g., use of fresh cutting blades and laboratory scale production).

Highlights

One of the current focal points of research in the European wood-based panel industry is the production of particleboards with a reduced use of wood
The effects of flat-shaped face layer particles and a core layer particle of intentionally greater thickness used as an alternative to typical particles on the properties of wood-reduced particleboards are presented
The intention was to demonstrate the potential of changing the particle geometry for the production of wood-reduced boards while simultaneously achieving target properties

Summary

Introduction

One of the current focal points of research in the European wood-based panel industry is the production of particleboards with a reduced use of wood. In addition to the advantages of increased material efficiency for the particleboard manufacturer, the savings set free material for other uses. The side benefit of the reduction in the use of wood is the reduction in board weight (light-weight particleboard), which may offer economic advantages for furniture manufacturers and retailers of take-away furniture. There is currently [1] no sign of a consumer-driven pull effect for lightweight furniture, either or in the near future. This means that changes in production must lead to a direct cost reduction and a possible additional expense can hardly be passed on

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