Investigation on the effect of wood particles acetylation on heat transfer during press and mechanical properties of particleboard

Abstract

This research was conducted to investigate the effect of acetylation on the heat transfer of pressing plate to the core of wood particles cake during hot pressing and mechanical properties in particleboard made of acetylated particles from Fagus orientalis. After 12 hours soaking in acetic anhydride, in order to achieving three weight gains, 5, 9 and 16%, particles were heated in oven at 120?c for 30, 90 & 240 minutes, respectively. During pressing operation of particles, heat transfer was measured by thermocouple wires connected to thermometer. Results showed that by increasing the wooden paricles acetylation severity, heat transfer decreases. Also, by increasing acetylation percent, mechanical properties decrease.

Keywords