Effects of some production variables on physical and mechanical properties of particleboard made of Alnus subcordata by UF and MUF resins

An experiment was conducted to study polymerization conditions and important production factors, the amount of resin and press temperature on physical and mechanical properties of produced boards by urea formaldehyde (UF) and melamine urea formaldehyde (MUF) were compared. Purified UF resin (control treatment) and its mixture with MUF at 25, 50 and 75% proportions and at 170 and 180˚C temperatures were used to make homogen particle boards. The proportion of resin to particles was 10 percent by dry weight. Other production factors were assumed as fix factors. Eight experimental groups (treatment) with three replications per each were studied. Produced particles were derived from species Alnus subcordata. Physical and mechanical properties measurement prepared samples were based on European EN standard. Examined Physical characteristics include water absorption and thickness swell and mechanical characteristics were modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity and internal bond. The data were analyzed in completely randomized design with factorial arrangement (4*2). Statistical significances among treatment means were determined by multiple range test of Duncan. The results of this study showed that physical and mechanical properties of boards were significantly improved by increasing the level of MUF resin and temperature. In sum, taking into account the quality and economical aspects of produced particleboard based on MUF resin as compared to that of control, we have concluded that 50 percent of MUF resin and 180 degree centigrade of press temperature are optimal levels.