Investigation of the properties of fiberboards made from microcrystalline cellulose and antimony trioxide added melamine formaldehyde adhesive

Abstract

Antimony trioxide (AT) was added to melamine formaldehyde (MF) adhesive at concentrations of 4% and 8% to produce fiberboard panels. The microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) loading for the panels was 5 and 10% based on dry adhesive amount. It was determined that the antimony trioxide usage resulted in a positive effect on the physical properties of fiberboard panels. The modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, and internal bonding values of the fiberboard samples increased with increment antimony trioxide amount. The limiting oxygen index (LOI) levels of the antimony trioxide added samples were higher compared to those of control, MCC and MCC/AT samples. The addition of 8% of antimony trioxide resulted in the highest LOI value. The results revealed that antimony trioxide plays a significant role as a flame retardant. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) curves of microcrystalline cellulose and antimony trioxide added samples showed similar thermal behavior. • The addition of 8% of antimony trioxide resulted in the highest LOI value. • The adding AT to fiberboard as a fire retardant enhanced the resistance to fire. • The high mechanical property was achieved at 8% of AT loading. • The usage of AT decreased substantially WA and TS values.