Effect of phenol formaldehyde resin on thickness, moisture content, density and water absorption of particle board

Gliricidia, Gliricidia maculate is a promising source of lignocellulosic material and can be utilized for preparation of particle board. Suitability of gliricidia as a raw material for preparation of particle board manufacture has been evaluated. The results showed that gliricidia is suitable for making particle board. The particle boards were prepared with 12 and 14 per cent phenol formaldehyde resin content. Thickness of the board varied from 6.9 mm to 8.3 mm while moisture content varied from 5.5 to 7.7 per cent. Maximum thickness and moisture content were recorded in the board prepared with 6 per cent resin content whereas density varied from 0.69 to 0.73 g/cm3. Maximum density was recorded in boards prepared from 14 per cent of resin content. Water absorption of the boards for 2 hours and 24 hours soaking in water varied from 19.95 to 58.87 and 35.57 to 76.99 per cent respectively. Increase in the amount of resin showed decrease in water absorption property.