Evaluation of the physical and mechanical properties of particleboard made from the needle litter of Pinus pinaster Ait.

The objective of this study was to investigate the use of the needle litter of Pinus pinaster Ait. in manufacturing three-layer particleboard. Physical (thickness swelling) and mechanical properties (modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, and internal bond strength) of the panels were determined according to the procedure of EN standards. Effects of needle litter collection time, and usage on the properties of particleboard made from Eucalyptus globulus Labill. wood were investigated. While the needle litter usage decreased the mechanical properties, thickness swelling of the panels was improved, significantly. The needle litter collection time was found to be effective on all properties of the particleboard. Based on the findings of this study, it appears that three-layer particleboard can be manufactured from the needle litter of P. pinaster Ait.