Effect of process parameters on fungal resistance of MDF panels

摘要

A study was conducted at Forintek Canada Corporation to investigate the effects of different refining process conditions and resin contents on mold growth rates. A refining experiment was carried out with a fractional factorial design. Preheating retention time, steam pressure, resin content, and panel density were chosen as the factors, each at two different levels. Twenty-four laboratory panels were made with eight different manufacturing processes. Mold growth on the medium density fiberboard (MDF) panels was quantified according to a modified ASTM standard (D 3273-94). Experimental results showed that preheating temperature and moisture content at the completion of the mold growth test positively correlated to the mold growth rate. Mold growth rate was lower with higher panel modulus of rupture (MOR) tested after a 1-hour boiling treatment and higher initial moisture. To a lesser extent, mold growth was reduced with increased resin content and dry panel MOR.