Investigation on the Physical Properties of Particleboard Produced from Biodegradeable Waste and Plastics

Ezeagu CA*, Okoli CC and Egbebuike M
Department of Civil Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
*Corresponding Author: Ezeagu CA, Department of Civil Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.

Published: July 25, 2025

View Pdf

Abstract  

This paper investigated the physical properties of particleboard produced using Biodegradeable wastes (Rice husk , Sawdust, Breadfruit seed coating, Oil palm fruit fiber) and plastics. Five samples were examined. The moisture content, ash content, thickness swelling percent, water absorption percent, density, surface appearance, of these produced samples, were all examined and compared with the control sample (medium dense fireboard, (MDF)). The mean density of the board ranges from 240kg/m³ to 648kg/m³. The moisture content ranges from 21.81% to 69.39%. water absorption percent and thickness swelling percent ranges from 19.24% to 119.94% and 5.88% to 38.46% respectively at two hours soaking, 70.99% to 219.6% and 5.88% to 66.67% respectively at 24 hours soaking. The control sample (purchased medium dense fireboard, (MDF)) recorded the highest density (643kg/m³), highest ash content (9.55%), lowest moisture content (16.08%), lowest thickness swelling and water absorption percent (19.24%,5.88%) at 2 hours soaking in water, lowest thickness swelling and water absorption percent (70.99%,5.88%) at 24 hours soaking in water . Sample A (particleboard produced with Rice husk) gave the best performance among other produced samples for physical properties. Generally, the results of the physical properties of the samples were comparable to the control sample (MDF) which is available in the local Market.

Keywords: Particleboard; Sawdust; Rice husk; Oil-palm fiber; Breadfruit seed coating; Plastics; Physical properties; Density; Moisture content; Ash content; Thickness swelling and Water absorption Percent

.