Mechanical and physical properties of agro-based fiberboard

In order to better utilize agricultural fibers as an alternative resource for composite panels, several variables were investigated to improve mechanical and physical properties of agro-based fiberboard. This study focused on the effect of fiber morphology, slenderness ratios (L/D), and fiber mixing combinations on panel properties. The panel construction types were also investigated such as hardboard (HB), medium density fiberboard (MDF), and bagasse core panel (BCP) made from bagasse/bamboo combinations with a combination of 1% pMDI/4% UF as a binder. Static bending properties and tensile strength increased as fiber L/D increased from 3 to 26. Fiber separation and morphology also influenced the mechanical property development of agro-based panels. Bagasse fiber bundles and particles smaller than L/D of 5.4 were responsible for the mechanical property loss of agro-based MDF. The BCP yielded promising results for modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR). However, HB appeared to be a better panel type for agro-based composites based on the property enhancement compared to wood-based panel products.