Physical Properties of Particleboard Panels Manufactured from Phoenix Dactylifera-L (Date Palm) Mid-rib Chips using Ureaformaldehyde Binder

Abstract

Pertinent physical properties of experimental particleboard specimens produced from date palm (Phoenix dactylifera-L) branch mid-ribs chips impregnated with ureaformaldehyde (UF) polymer binder are investigated. The effect of process variables (press temperature, pressure, press cycle time and particle thickness) on thickness swelling, water absorption, equilibrium moisture content (EMC) and panel density are presented graphically and discussed in terms of process variables, internal structure of particles and UF-aqueous environment interactions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) data on the internal structure of date palm branch mid-ribs are also reported.

Keywords:

• date palm branch mid-ribs
• natural fiber
• particleboard
• physical properties
• SEM
• ureaformaldehyde