Particleboard from Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.) Residues

Abstract

Particleboard production from non-induced and distilled agarwood residues was studied. Particleboard was produced at a density of 0.65 g/cm³, using resin in surface layers at 8, 10 and 12% and in the core layer at 6, 8 and 10% by oven dry weight. The particleboard was pressed at temperatures of 140, 150, 160 and 180˚C, with a specific pressure of 41 kg/cm². Finished particleboard samples were tested to determine physical and mechanical properties according to the European Standard (EN).

The modulus of rupture value of particleboard made from non-induced agarwood residues did not meet the EN standard. The modulus of rupture value of particleboard made from distilled agarwood residues with 12% resin in the surface layers and 10% resin in the core layer at a temperature of 140˚C passed the EN standard.

The modulus of elasticity values of particleboard made from non-induced agarwood residues passed the EN standard with10% resin in the surface layers, 8% resin in the core layer and pressed at temperatures of 140, 150 and 180˚C, as did samples with 12% resin in the surface layers and 10% resin in the core layer pressed at a temperature of 150˚C. Particleboard made from distilled agarwood residues with 12% resin in the surface layers and 10% in the core layer at temperatures of 140 and 150˚C also produced values for modulus of elasticity that passed the EN standard.

Internal bonding values of particleboard made from both non-induced and distilled agarwood residues under all conditions passed the EN standard. The thickness swelling value of most particleboard samples passed the standard. The formaldehyde content of non-induced and distilled agarwood particleboard were in class E1 of the standard.

Keywords:  particleboard, Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.)