The effect of Na+ montmorillonite (NaMMT) nanoclay on thermal properties of medium density fiberboard (MDF)

In this study, the potential use of nanotechnology was evaluated to improve the thermal properties of medium density fiberboard (MDF). For this, Na+ montmorillonite (NaMMT) nanoclay was added to urea formaldehyde resin to produce MDF. In order to characterize the structure of the MDF, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and SEM observation were performed, and the thermal properties were examined using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal analysis (DTA), thermal conductivity test and fire test. Characterization of the MDFs shows that dispersed and exfoliated structures were generated by the hot press. The X-ray diffraction confirmed the suitable exfoliation of NaMMT in the MDFs containing NaMMT. The SEM images of NaMMT-added boards showed a suitable dispersion of NaMMT through the MDF. The results of thermal tests indicated a desirable effect of NaMMT on thermal-oxidative stability and thermal conductivity of MDF.