Effect of pressing pressure on physical and mechanical properties of ELAEIS GUINEENSIS fronds composite board

Performance of composite boards usually depends on the raw materials selection and fabrication parameters. This paper presents the effect of different level of applied pressure towards the performance of the end product of Elaeis guineensis composite board. The OPF was collected from a private plantation in Sarawak and refined into smaller particles by using a crusher machine. Sieved OPF particles that retained on the 0.60mm sieve mesh were used to fabricate composite boards with a targeted density of 0.7g/cm3. The 20 cm × 20 cm × 0.50 cm composite boards were fabricated under same hot press temperature of 160℃ for three different applied pressures of 5MPa, 6MPa, and 7MPa respectively. The physical and mechanical properties test were conducted according to the Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS A5908:2003). It is indicated from the results that the performance of Elaeis guineensis composite board improved with increasing applied pressure. The composite boards satisfied the provision set for the internal bond (IB) strength and modulus of rupture (MOR) in JIS A5908:2003. Unfortunately, the thickness swelling percentage exceeded the maximum set value. Overall performance investigated that Elaeis guineensis composite board is suitable to be used in indoor applications such as based materials, decorative boards, and teaching aids

Engineered Wood Products from Planted Tropical Timber Species

Engineered wood products (EWP) have gained popularity and recognition in Malaysia’s construction industry. These products refer to a category of wood products that are manufactured by bonding or combining wood strands, veneers, or fibers with adhesives to create a stronger and more stable material compared to solid wood. In Malaysia, the use of EWP, such as plywood, laminated veneer lumber, glued laminated timber, and particleboard, has been growing steadily. These products offer several advantages over traditional solid wood, including improved strength, dimensional stability, and resistance to warping and splitting. EWP is also often used as a sustainable alternative to solid wood because it utilizes smaller, fast-growing trees and reduces waste. EWP find applications in various construction projects, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They are commonly used for interior and exterior structural elements, such as beams, columns, trusses, and flooring systems. EWP, such as plywood and particleboard, are also used extensively for wall and roof sheathing, furniture manufacturing, and decorative applications. The Malaysian construction industry has recognized the benefits of EWP in terms of cost-effectiveness, design flexibility, and environmental sustainability. As a result, there has been increased adoption of these products in both large-scale projects and smaller construction ventures