Mechanical and Physical Properties of Medium Density Fiberboard Panels Laminated with Thermally Compressed Veneer

Abstract

The objective of study was to evaluate some of the physical and mechanical properties of medium density fiberboard (MDF) panels laminated with veneer sheets compressed at different levels of pressure and temperature. Rotary peeled veneer samples of European beech ( Fagus orientalis Lipsky) were compressed at temperatures of 150 oC, 180 °C, and 200 °C using 4 MPa and 6 MPa pressure for 8 min. Commercially produced MDF samples also were laminated with such compressed veneer sheets. Both modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) of the specimens increased with increasing pressure and press temperature. Bending characteristics of the samples tested parallel to the grain orientation resulted in significantly higher values than that perpendicular to the grain orientation for each manufacturing parameter. Thickness swelling of the samples also was influenced by increased pressure but variation in press temperature did not result in any influence on dimensional stability. The findings of this work provide potential to produce sandwich type panels with improved properties. Initial results found in this study could be used to manufacture laminated panels with a fixed rate of adhesive while controlling press parameters as a function of the magnitude of pressure and temperature.