Acetylated flakeboard properties

Abstract

Flakeboards were prepared from acetylated and untreated flakes of damar (Agathis loranthifolia [A. dammara]), tusam (Pinus merkusii), sengon (Paraserianthes falcataria) and meranti (Shorea pinanga). Phenol formaldehyde was used as adhesive. Flakeboards were tested for their physical and mechanical properties, and resistance to dry wood termites (Cryptotermes cynocephalus) and subterranean termites [Coptotermes sp.]. Boards made with acetylated flakes had lower moisture content, water absorption and thickness swelling, and higher anti-shrink efficiency, modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, internal bond, screw holding capacity and resistance to termites. Wood species affected physical and mechanical properties of the boards and resistance to subterranean termites, but not resistance to dry wood termites.