Color Change and Physical-Mechanical Properties of Polystyrene-Impregnated Glulam from Three Tropical Fast-Growing Wood Species

The aims of this work were to determine the color change and physical–mechanical properties polystyrene glulam from three tropical wood species. Wood laminas cut logs harvested a young plantation forest manii (Maesopsis eminii), mangium (Acacia mangium), rubber-wood (Hevea brasiliensis). impregnated with monomer styrene that was polymerized using potassium peroxy-disulfate as catalyst heat. Three-layer constructed laminas, isocyanate glue cold press. For comparison purposes, three-layer untreated solid samples prepared. results showed very small compared glulam. Polystyrene had highest density, while density did not differ wood. moisture content all products matched environment, fulfilled Japanese standard. Compared both types glulams, lower values for modulus rupture (MOR), elasticity (MOE), hardness, but higher shear strength. Meanwhile, MOR MOE, equal strength failure, hardness than All glulams little delamination in hot water test. Only JAS 234-2003 MOR, strength, delamination. To obtain adequate medium-density is recommended manufacturing.