Particleboard Surface Optimization for High-Quality Laminating with Decor Paper

Abstract

The level of wood consumption is important in particleboard (PB) manufacturing because wood is a natural source. This study aimed to determine the optimum wood consumption in PB manufacture. The study examined how the PB's surface (SL) and core (CL) layer ratio and sanding tolerance affect the PB surface laminating condition. The optimal manufacturing conditions were determined among different combinations of PB density (520 or 560 kg/m3), SL/CL ratio, and sanding thickness using the multi-criteria decision-making method (MCDM). Grey relational analysis (GRA) was used as MCDM. Samples were characterized according to TS EN 312. The moisture content (MC) increased (30%) as the SL ratio increased. Thickness swelling (TS) and water absorption (WA) generally decreased as SL increased. Increasing surface layer density and board density significantly improved internal bond (IB) strength and surface stiffness (SS). Modulus of rupture (MOR) and elasticity (MOE) decreased as the sanding tolerance increased. Surface and edge screw withdrawal (SRy and SRk) resistance were increased as the density, sanding tolerance, and surface density increased. This study is the first comprehensive optimization approach to improve quality in coating low-density particle boards with decorative paper, potentially leading to material savings and production efficiency for the furniture and coating industries.