Influence of processing parameters on some properties of oil palm trunk binderless particleboard

The objective of the study was to evaluate some properties of experimental binderless particleboards produced from various processing parameters. Three different temperatures (160, 180, 200 A degrees C), two different hot pressing times (15, 20 min) and two different pressures (5, 10 MPa) were applied in manufacturing the binderless particleboard. Three replications of each of the 12 different types of boards with a target density of 0.60 g cm(-3) were produced. The thickness swelling, dimensional changes associated with changes in relative humidity, bending strength, internal bonding strength, and soil burial decay test were evaluated. Increase of temperature, duration of hot pressing and pressure increased the properties of specimens. Thickness swelling nearly met the requirement of European Standard for use in humid condition. Some of the specimens showed promising mechanical properties and met the requirement of European Standard.