Effect of the addition of citric acid on particleboard properties

In this study, the effect of the addition of citric acid on physical and mechanical properties of particleboard were investigated. The variable in this research were the ratio of citric acid to wood chips (at four levels; 0:100, 10:90, 20:80, 30:70) and urea - formaldehyde resin (in two levels of 5 and 10 percent). The physical and mechanical properties were evaluated according to European standards set of EN. The effect of citric acid treatment on the wood particles was analyzed by FTIR. Fourier transform infrared spectra analysis suggested that the carboxyl groups of citric acid had reacted with the hydroxyl groups of the wood particles to give the boards good physical and mechanical properties. The urea-formaldehyde resin content can be reduced in the particleboard as good function citric acid in improving strengths. On the basis of results of this study can be concluded that particleboard containing urea-formaldehyde resin in the level of 5 percent and citric acid in the level of 20 percent can be used for general purpose board (Type P1) for use in dry conditions. Also, there was usability of urea-formaldehyde resin in the level of 10 percent and citric acid in the level of 20 percent for interior fitments (Type P2) for use in dry conditions.