Evaluation of the effect of using additives and press variables on the mechanical properties of medium density fiberboard with response surface methodology (RSM)

In this study, it was evaluated the effect of almond shell powder as extender on the mechanical properties of the medium density fiberboards manufactured from bagasse fibers. Almond shell powder/UF resin ratio at five level (0:100, 5:95, 10:90, 15:85 and 20:80), paraffin content at five levels (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2%), press temperature at five levels (140, 150, 160, 170 and 180 C) and press time at five levels (5, 6, 7, 8, 9 min) were selected as production variables. The mechanical properties (modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE) and internal bonding strength (IB)) of panels were tested and the data was analyzed based on Response surface methodology (RSM). Results showed almond shell powder, significantly influenced the mechanical properties of panels. They in general decreased with increasing almond shell powder content. Although internal bonding of all panels showed a decrease with increasing the extender, but internal bonding strength of all panels were more than recommended standards (EN). Besides, results of this analysis showed during high press temperature, the extender was better efficiency. In general, wax had a negligible reducer effect on mechanical properties. According to RSM analyses, the best results were found on the panels that have been made at 160° C press temperature and 6 min pressing time.