Evaluation of Medium Density Fibreboards Manufactured from Kenaf Bast Fibres

摘要

Kenaf (Hibiscus Cannabinus L) bast fibers were investigated as an alternative material for manufacturing of Medium Density Fibreboards (MDF) in a pilot plant. Three different commercial resins, Urea Formaldehyde (UF), Phenol Formaldehyde (PF) and Melamine Urea Formaldehyde (MUF) were used in the manufacturing of MDF panels. The kenaf medium density fibreboards (KMDF) were produced with a target thickness of 9 mm and density of 700 kg/m3. The effect of resin type, resin loading percentage (8% to 12%) and moisture content (10% to 14%) on the physicomechanical properties of KMDF were evaluated. Young's modulus, modulus of rupture, internal bond strength, thickness swelling and water absorption were determined. The Taguchi method of experimental design was employed to determine the effects of resin type, resin loading and moisture content on the mechanical and physical properties of KMDF. The boards produced with PF and MUF resins, at higher resin loading and intermediate level of moisture content showed elevated properties in accordance with wood based MDF standard ANSI A208.2-2002.