Properties of Medium Density Fiberboard Based on Bagasse Fibers

Abstract

In this study, sugarcane bagasse fiber was used for medium density fiberboard (MDF) manufacturing. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of maleic anhydride (MA) and press temperature on the mechanical (static bending, modulus of elasticity, and internal bond) and physical properties (thickness swelling, water and steam absorption) of the boards. This study showed that all the MDF panels made from bagasse fibers treated with MA at 190°C press temperature had the highest values among the other types of panels for general purpose boards. In addition, treated fibers at 190°C showed minimum steam absorption. The absorption of steam increased with increase in time from 12 to 120 h in all the treatments. Beyond 120 h no additional absorption of steam was found in any of the six MDF boards. Overall results showed that MDF panels made from bagasse exceed the EN standards for internal bond, modulus of elasticity, and static bending. However, thickness swelling values were higher (poor) than requirements. For this reason, additional work needs to be done on improving the physical properties of particleboard produced from bagasse.