Physical and Mechanical Properties of Particleboard from Bamboo Waste

This research was to evaluate a technical feasibility of making single-layer experimental particleboard panels from bamboo waste (Dendrocalamus asper Backer) by converting bamboo into strips, which are used to make laminated bamboo furniture. Variable factors were density (600, 700 and 800 kg/m) and temperature of condition (25, 40 and 55 C). The experimental panels were tested for their physical and mechanical properties including modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), internal bonding strength (IB), screw holding strength (SH) and thickness swelling values according to the procedures defined by Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS). The test result of mechanical properties showed that the MOR, MOE and IB values were not in the set criteria, except the MOR values at the density of 700 kg/m at 25 C and at the density of 800 kg/m at 25 and 40 C, the IB values at the density of 600 kg/m, at 40 C, and at the density of 800 kg/m at 55 C. The SH values had the test result according to the set standard, except with the density of 600 kg/m, at 40 and 55 C. Conclusively, a valuable renewable biomass, bamboo waste could be used to manufacture boards. Keywords—Particleboard, Urea Formaldehyde Resin, Bamboo Waste