Influence of Pressing Pressure on the Mechanical Properties of <i>Durio zibethinus</i> (Durian) Fiberboard

Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) was developed from Durio zibethinus (durian) husk using urea formaldehyde (UF) as binder. The output will be applied an automotive panel, realigning the conventional application of MDFs. Fibers were recovered husk, undersize 10 mesh screen used for board production. optimal conditions determined by different mixing ratios UF with water and varying pressing pressure. undersized fibers optimized characterized in terms surface morphology. Moreover, mechanical properties fiberboards also studied. Results showed that at a press pressure 640 kPa. It yielded internal bond (IB) 2.85±0.43 MPa, modulus elasticity (MOE) 3008±228.69 rupture (MOR) 22.25±2.61 MPa. These compared against commercial MDF based on American National Standards Institute (ANSI) specifications (IB≥0.6 MOE≥2500 MOR≥22 MPa). Hence, these results proved has high potential industry.