Investigation on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) Made from Acacia salicina

In this research the utilization of Acacia wood (Acacia salicina) in medium density fiber board production was investigated. Sample boards were made from Acacia fibers at two resin contents (10, 12%), two press temperatures (175, 185 ˚C) and three press times(3, 4, 5 min). The results were analyzed based on a complete randomized design (CRD) under a factorial experiment. Results revealed that increase of resin content had a positive effect on MOR and MOE and thickness swelling of MDF. At 12% resin content, MOR and MOE were respectively determined as 18.97 MPa and 1912 MPa. Also thickness swelling after soaking in water for 2 and 24 hours decreased from 15.87 and 20.96% to 10.76 and 16.49%, respectively. Internal bond strength (IB) was higher at 4 min. press time than 3 and 5 min. The IB of the boards, which were made at 4 min press time, was determined as 0.63 MPa. In general, the results showed the possibility of using Acacia wood in MDF production with proper physical and mechanical properties.