The Influences of Drying Temperature of Wood Particles on the Quality Properties of Particleboard Composite

Abstract

The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the effects of drying temperature of wood particles on the quality properties of particleboard composite and chemical properties of wood. Test panels were manufactured using wood particles dried at different temperatures ranging from 100 to 180 degrees C. Based on the findings obtained in this study, increasing drying temperature of the particles negatively affected the mechanical properties, surface roughness, and wettability of the particleboards. However, increasing drying temperature significantly caused a positive effect on the thickness swelling. The results showed that the particleboards made from particles dried at 180 degrees C did not meet the required levels of mechanical strength properties according to the EN 312 (2010) standard for furniture production. The particleboards made from wood particles dried at 150 degrees C for 35 min appeared to be a practical choice for interior fitments.