Reduction of formaldehyde emission from medium density fiberboard using nanoclay modified with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane and l-Lysine as additives to urea-formaldehyde adhesive

Abstract

As a way of reducing the formaldehyde emission and improving the properties of medium density fiberboard (MDF), this study investigated the effects of nanoclay and modified nanoclay with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and l-Lysine (Lys) on the MDF. The XRD, FTIR, and CHN anaLyses showed that nanoclay was successfully modified with APTES and Lys. 1.5, 2, and 2.5% of nanoclay and modified nanoclay were added into UF resin (based on the dry weight), and the mixtures were used to produce MDF. Changes in formaldehyde emissions were determined by the desiccator method. In addition, the modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), internal bonding (IB), thickness swelling (TS), and water absorption (WA) of the boards were measured. The results showed that adding nanoclay (5–25%) and modified nanoclay with APTES (42–61%) and Lys (38–50%) reduced formaldehyde emission. Meanwhile, the mechanical and physical properties of the boards also improved by adding nanoclay and modified nanoclay.