<Note>Dimensional Stability and Biological Resistance of Particleboard from Acetylated Albizzia Wood Particles

Abstract

Dimensional stability and biological resistance of low-density acetylated particleboards from tropical fast-growing and perishable timber, Albizia facata, were investigated. Acetylated particles with 18% weights gain (WG) were pressed into particle-boards using phenol folmaldehyde (PF) resin and isocyanate (IC) resin for adhesives. Control boards made with PF adhesive swelled faster and to a greater extent than did control boards containing IC adhesive. Boards made from acetylated particles showed greater reduced rate and extent of swelling after water soaking test or dry/wet treatment for both types of adhesives as compared to control boards. Acetylated particleboards subjected to burial in moist unsterile soil were virtually unchanged in color and texture with little weight loss showing the potential performance in severe biological conditions.