Title
Comparative evaluation of mechanical and physical properties of particleboard made from bagasse fibers and improved by using different methods
Authors
REEM MAGZOUB Z. OSMAN P. TAHIR T. H. NASROON and W. KANTNER

Received January 4, 2014
Published Volume 49 Issue 5-6 May-June
Keywords bagasse, alkali treatment, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, PUF and UF

Abstract
This work aimed at evaluating the improvement in the mechanical properties of particleboard made from bagasse fibers. Two methods were investigated: treatment of bagasse fibers with NaOH and addition of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (EC) wood particles to the bagasse in different ratios (30 and 50% w/w). The initial pH of bagasse fibers was raised from 5 to 10 by soaking the fibers in a solution of NaOH of 3.5% concentration for one hour. The treated fibers were used to produce panels using two adhesive systems, UF and PUF (17%w/w). The obtained panels were tested for their mechanical properties (modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), internal bond (IB) and physical properties (water absorption (WA) and thickness swelling (TS)) according to the relevant EN BS standard). The results indicated that the panels produced from 100% treated bagasse fibers and PUF showed superior values for MOR and MOE, which well exceeded the performance level specified in EN312-3 standards for boards for interior fitments (including furniture). The values were slightly less than the standard value for load bearing boards (BSEN 312-4). The addition of Eucalyptus camaldulensis particles to the bagasse fibers in the proportions of 30% and 50% was found to improve the IB and the thickness swelling of the produced panels. The study concluded that the alkali treatment of bagasse could be more effective and beneficial, when compared with the addition of wood particles.