Influence of Rice Straw, Bagasse, and their Combination on the Properties of Binderless Particleboard

Abstract

In this study, rice straw and bagasse are used as raw materials to produce binderless particleboard (BPB). This study aims to evaluate the mechanical and physical properties of BPB. We identify the raw material that would be better for the production of BPB from the viewpoint of their basic properties. The BPBs are made from rice straw, bagasse, and combinations of both in ratios of 50:50 and 40:60, respectively. The modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), internal bonding (IB) strength, water absorption, and thickness swelling properties of the different BPBs are determined and compared. Results showed that all the properties are significantly influenced by the type of particles or particle combinations in the BPB. BPBs made from bagasse alone have the highest MOR, MOE, and IB mean values, whereas BPBs made from rice straw alone exhibit the lowest MOR, MOE, and IB values. Meanwhile, BPBs made from a combination of rice straw and bagasse at 40:60 ratio by weight have the second highest values for properties such as MOR, MOE, and IB, followed by BPBs made from a combination of rice straw and bagasse at 50:50 ratio by weight.