Impact of condensation degree of melamine-formaldehyde resins on their curing behavior and on the final properties of high-pressure laminates

Abstract

<jats:p> Melamine-formaldehyde is the most common resin used in the production of high-pressure laminates and low-pressure laminates (melamine impregnated paper), due to its properties of durability, good fire, and heat resistance and good moisture resistance. High-pressure laminate is a common choice for horizontal and vertical applications in the construction and furniture industries, thanks to its durability and versatility. The manufacture of such laminates commonly starts with the impregnation of decorative and kraft papers with thermosetting resins and after a drying process, the impregnated paper sheets are bonded together by high pressure and temperature pressing. The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of the melamine-formaldehyde resins condensation degree after synthesis on high-pressure laminates performance. For that purpose, melamine-formaldehyde resins with different condensation degree were synthetized and characterized. Fourier-transform infrared–attenuated total reflection spectroscopy and dynamic mechanical analysis were used to study the chemical and mechanical cure of melamine-formaldehyde resins. Melamine-formaldehyde condensation degree has shown to have influence on resin pot-life, on characteristic reaction temperatures, on the degree of cross-linking achieved, and finally on the surface quality of high-pressure laminates. </jats:p>

Surface Roughness, Dynamic Wettability, and Interphase of Modified Melamine Formaldehyde-Based Adhesives on Jabon Wood

“…Alongside PF adhesives [ 25 ], MF adhesives are extensively used in the production of semi-exterior- and exterior-grade wood-based panels [ 29 ]. These adhesives are widely selected by glulam or CLT producers because of their relatively low costs, transparent bonding lines, excellent durability, heat resistance, and resistance to water and moisture [ 30 , 31 ]. MF, being a thermosetting glue, is typically utilized in conjunction with hot presses, resulting in higher costs associated with heat energy consumption.…”

Effect of Glue Spread on Bonding Strength, Delamination, and Wood Failure of Jabon Wood-Based Cross-Laminated Timber Using Cold-Setting Melamine-Based Adhesive

“…MF adhesives are extensively used in the production of semiexterior- and exterior-grade wood-based panels [ 14 ]. The adhesive is widely selected by glulam or CLT producers because of its relatively low cost, transparent bonding lines, excellent durability, heat resistance, and resistance to water and moisture [ 15 , 16 ]. However, the adhesive bonds must be capable of transferring loads and maintaining their strength and durability over the service life of the structure [ 17 ].…”