An Investigation of the Effects of Manufacturing Parameters On Properties of Binderless Boards Produced from Abura (Mitragyna Ciliata) Sawdust

Abstract

The production of particleboards without the use of synthetic binders is desirable to prevent environmental problems. This study has produced experimental binderless boards from untreated sawdust from Abura wood using a laboratory press. Response Surface Methodology using Box-Behnken experimental design was utilized to investigate the influenceof pressing variables (pressure, pressing temperature and pressing time). Density of the bioboards produced wasbetween 523.69 and 738 kg/m3which was comparable tomedium density fibreboards. The maximum values for Internal Bonding Strength (IB), Modulus of Rupture (MOR)andModulus of Elasticity (MOE) were 0.049 MPa,1.1 MPaand100.4 MPa, respectively. It was shown that, for the range of factors studied, pressure and the pressing temperature were the more significant factors in determining the density, MOE and IB. This study showed that the sawdust can potentially be used for the manufactureof binderless boards.