Investigation physical properties and decay resistance of Medium Density Fiberboard sanding powder- polyethylene-nanoclay composite

In this study، the effect of nanoclay and coupling agent on decay resistance and physical properties (including water absorption and thickness swelling) of nanoclay- Polyethylene- MDF sanding- powder composite were investigated. For this aim، MDF sanding dust and polyethylene were used as lignocellulose and thermoplastic material respectively. Also، Maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (MAPE) was used in different weight percentages; 3% and 6% as a compatibilizer and nanoclay. Cloisite®15A was used in different weight percentages 2%، 4% and 6%. At first، raw materials were producted to fabricate granules by using twin-screw extruder. Then 36 panels (12 treatments by 3 repetitions) were made by hot pressing with 1 g/cm3 nominal density at dimensions by 30 cm × 28 cm × 1 cm. Then، water absorption and thickness swelling and decay resistant (loss weight) were investigated. Specimens were exposed to Trametes versicolor for 3 months، according to ASTM-D1413 standard. The results shown، water absorption and thickness swelling reduce with increasing MAPE significantly. While، at the time when nanoclay was added 2% (phr)، water absorption and thickness swelling reduced significantly and then increased. Also، decay resistance was improved with increasing coupling agent and nanoclay.