Characterization of MDF reinforced with Al₂O₃ Nano particles considering physical, mechanical and quasi-static properties

ABSTRACT

The paper investigates the addition of Nano-Al₂O₃ powder (alumina, Average Particle Size: 20 nm) on the characteristics of the Medium Density Fibreboards (MDF) made by the forest fibers. Some important physical, mechanical and quasi-static properties of the panels were measured according to the standard test methods and apparatus. Different percentages of alumina powder (0, 1, 2, and 3 weight percentage (wt.) based on the solid content of resin) were used and panels were made in three thicknesses (5, 10 and 14 mm). The experiments showed that the resultant properties of the new composites were improved. The greatest increase in Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) was achieved when 1% wt. alumina was added to the samples. Addition of alumina up to 1% wt. in 5 and 10 mm panels amplified energy absorption by 17% and 24%, respectively. The greatest increase in peak load and energy absorption was observed in samples with 2 and 1% wt. alumina, respectively. Finite element modeling was also used to validate the experimental results. The numerical modeling was in good agreement with the experimental results.

KEYWORDS:

• Medium density Fiberboard
• Nano-Al₂O₃ powder
• mechanical properties
• physical properties
• quasi-static properties
• finite element modeling

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).