Properties of laminated panels made from compressed oil palm trunk

This study evaluated physical and mechanical properties of laminated panels made from compressed oil palm trunk (OPT). The OPT were steamed at 130 °C before being compressed and laminated using polyvinyl acetate adhesive at 250 g/m2 and 500 g/m2 spread rates. The modulus of rupture and compression strength values of laminated panels made from compressed OPT was greater than those of laminated panels made from uncompressed OPT. Surface roughness, water absorption, and thickness swelling of laminated panels made from compressed OPT significantly improved. The findings in this study indicated that compressing of OPT would be considered as an alternative to produce value-added material with enhanced properties.