Some physical and mechanical properties of medium-density fiberboard made from giant bamboo

The objective of this study was to evaluate the density, density profile, water swelling and absorption, modulus of elasticity and rupture from static bending, and tensile strength of experimental medium-density fiberboards manufactured using Dendrocalamus giganteus (Munro bamboo). The fiber production was carried out through the chemo-thermo-mechanical pulping process with four different conditions. The panels were made with 10% urea formaldehyde resin based on dry weight of the fibers, 2.5% of a catalyzer (ammonium sulfate) and 2% paraffin. The results indicate that treatments with the highest alkali (NaOH) percentage, time and splinter heating temperature improved the physical properties of the panels. The root-fiber interface was evaluated through scanning electron microscopy in fracture zones, which revealed fibers with thick, inflexible walls. The panels' mechanical properties were affected due to the fiber wall characteristics and interaction with resin. Giant bamboo fiber has potential for MDF production, but other studies should be carried out.UNIBRASIL, Brazil Integrated Fac, Design Dept, BR-82821020 Curitiba, Parana, BrazilFed Technol Univ Parana, Dept Mech, UTFPR, BR-80230901 Curitiba, Parana, BrazilUniv Fed Parana, UFPR, Forest Technol & Engn Dept, BR-80210170 Curitiba, Parana, BrazilState Univ Sao Paulo, UNESP, Dept Mech, BR-17033360 Bauru, SP, BrazilState Univ Sao Paulo, UNESP, Dept Mech, BR-17033360 Bauru, SP, Brazi