Evaluation of surface roughness and mechanical properties of particleboard panels made from bagasse

The main objective of this study is to investigate some of applied properties of experimental particleboard panels made with bagasse, as an alternative fibrous raw material. Modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), internal bond strength (IB) and thickness swelling (TS) of the specimens were evaluated. In addition, average roughness (Ra) and mean peak-to-valley height (Rz) were used to determine quantitatively surface characteristics of the panels. Three-layer mats with target density of 0.70 g/cm3 were formed by using fine chips for the face layer (25 wt.%) and coarse chips for the core layer (50 wt.%). Variable factors were as wood species (bagasse, poplar and mixed hardwood species), moisture content of mat (face layer: 12%, 14% and core layer: 9%, 11%) and press time (6 and 8 min). Statistical analysis showed that all variable factors exerted a significant influence on MOR, MOE, IB, TS, Rz properties of the boards as a single factor. Panels made with bagasse particles had superior mechanical and physical properties compared to the poplar and mixed hardwoods particles. Bagasse boards exhibited better surface roughness, having lower Ra and Rz values, than those made with poplar and mixed hardwoods particles.