Utilization of Recycled Banknote in Manufacturing

Utilizing of recycled banknote particles in combination with industrial wood particles in core layer of particleboard was studied. Recycled banknotes were mixed with core wood particles. The amount of added recycled banknote was 10, 20 and 30 percent by dry weight of wood particles. The ratio of core layer to face layer was 70: 30. Urea-formaldehyde was used as binder in manufacturing of boards. The amount of resin was 12 percent in face layer and 10 percent in core layer. Process conditions were as follows: press time, 5 and 7 min; press temperature in both sides, 160 and 180 °C. Physical and mechanical properties of the boards, including modulus of elasticity, modulus of rupture, internal bond, water absorption and thickness swelling were measured. Results indicated that increasing the amount of recycled banknote had a negative effect on the mechanical properties, especially internal bond, of treated boards in comparison to control samples. However, all mechanical properties of the samples were higher than the values recommended by standards. Concerning physical properties (water absorption and thickness swelling), increasing the ration of recycled banknotes reduced water absorption and thickness swelling after 24 hour of soaking. Increasing press time and press temperature improved all the properties studied. Generally, it can be said that recycled banknotes up to 30 be percent may be used in producing particleboard that are suitable for indoor applications.