Some physico-mechanical properties of medium density fiberboards (MDF) based on mixed hardwood particles and chopped sycamore leaves bonded with MDI resin

Abstract

Solving old and new challenges will require human ingenuity and creativity. The aim of this study was to evaluate some mechanical and physical properties of medium density fiberboards (MDF) made from various mixtures of wood fibers and sycamore leaves. Six panel types were made from mixtures of wood fiber/sycamore leaves flour, 100/0, 90/10, 80/20, 70/30 and 60/40 %, respectively. The incorporation of sycamore leaves flour greatly improved the water resistance of the panels. However, flexural properties and internal bond strength decreased with increasing sycamore leaves flour ratio. The results indicated that panels can be manufactured utilizing sycamore leaves flour up to 10 % without falling below the minimum European norm Standard requirements of mechanical properties for general purpose MDF panels.