Use of aluminum oxide nanoparticles in wood composites to enhance the heat transfer during hot-pressing

摘要

In this study, the effect of Al2O3 nanoparticles on the heat-transfer properties of medium density fiberboard (MDF) was investigated. Al2O3 nanoparticles were added at two levels (0.5 and 1.0 %) by percentage weight fraction of dry wood fibers to urea formaldehyde (UF) resin. The core temperature profile and thermal conductivity tests showed higher rate of heat transfer after addition of nanoparticles, subsequently it has improved the bonding strength of MDF. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to estimate the heat evolved during the exothermic reaction of UF resin curing. Scanning electron microscopy shows good dispersion of nanoparticles. Thermal conductivity of UF resin improved after nanoparticles addition proved by KD2 pro results. Modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity and thickness swelling also improved.