Investigation on the withdrawal strength of screw, nail and water absorption of Nanoclay-MDF dust-PP composite

In this research، effects of using nanoclay on withdrawal strength of screw and nail and also water absorption of nanoclay-MDF dust-PP composite were investigated. Hence، sanding dust of MDF used as lignocellulose material and polypropylene as the thermoplastic material. Also، nanoclay of Cloisite® 15A was used in three different weights 2%، 4% and 6%. At first، raw materials were produced using extruder to fabricate granules. Then، 36 boards (12 treatments in 3 replicates) with nominal density of 1 gr/cm3 and dimensions of 30 cm by 20 cm by 1 cm were produced using hot molding method. Afterwards، samples were conditioned at room temperature conditions for 3 weeks. Then، withdrawal strengths of nails and screws were measured according to BS Standard (CEN/TS15534–1:2007). Also، water absorption and thickness swelling of samples were determined. Results showed that the withdrawal strengths of nails and screws decreases as MDF dust weight is increased. Maximum withdrawal strengths of nails and screws were obtained with 2% of nanoclay. Furthermore، increasing percentage of dust weight as well as nanoclay particles water absorption and thickness swelling of samples are reduced.