Utilization of alder wood fibers for medium density fiberboard manufacture

In this investigation, 36 laboratory medium density fiberboard (MDF) panels were produced using alder wood fibers. The variables were steaming time of 5, 10 and 15 minutes, press time of 4 and 6 minutes and resin content of 9 and 11%. Physical and mechanical properties of panels were measured and analyzed. The results indicated that the maximum MOR was related to panels produced with 6 minutes press time and 11% resin consumption. The maximum Internal Bonding (IB) was related to panels made with 15 minutes steaming and content resin of 11%. However, test panels produced at 6 minutes press time showed minimum thickness swelling. The results indicated that the MDF boards produced from alder wood fibers exhibit desirable physical & mechanical properties which are above then EN standards. Consequently application of alder wood fibers to improve physical & mechanical properties of MDF panels produced from nonwood materials and agricaltural residues is recommendeable.