Properties of particleboard from coconut coir and empty fruit bunch (EFB) / Rusilma Arnie

The main purpose of this study is to determine the properties of particleboard
from coconut coir and empty fruit bunch (EFB) fiber. Coconut coir and EFB from
agriculture waste were used as alternatives raw materials for particleboard
manufacturing., The study parameter was ratio from Ratio 1 (100% coconut coir),
Ratio 2 (100% EFB) and Ratio 3 (50:50 ratios of coconut coir and EFB) with 13%
resin content. Other parameters such as type of adhesive used (Phenol
Formaldehyde), board density (550 kg/m3
) and press temperature (140°C) were
held constant. The particleboards were prepared following common
manufacturing technique. It was observed that the mixture ratio, board density
and fibres properties affect the properties of final particleboards considerably.
The experimental panel were tested for their mechanical strength include
modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), internal bond (IB) and
physical stability properties (thickness swelling) according to the procedures
define by Malaysian Standard. Boards produced from Ratio 3 have better
strength properties as compared to composition with Ratio 1 and Ratio 2. Overall
result showed that most panels made from above mentioned materials not
exceed the Malaysian standard for general purpose particleboard for use in
humid conditions of MOE, MOR and IB except for TS values. However, the
product still have potential because low density and light weight.