The suitability of structural particleboard made from fast-growing tree species

Wood particle gypsum boards were prepared in laboratory under the following conditions: wood particles from chips (Cryptomeria japonica, Paulownia X Taiwaniana, Aleurites montana) 30, 25, and 20%; gypsum 70, 75, and 80% by weight; water-gypsum-ratio 0.35; board density 1.1 g/cm³; pressure 30 kgf/cm²; post curing 8 to 10 days. The MOE (tested by stress-wave-timer) was 2,800.7–4,328.5 N/mm² and the MOR (tested by universal testing machine) was 4.74–10.25 N/mm²; the screw holding strength was ranging from 1.85 to 5.14 N/mm². The wood particle gypsum board made from Taiwan paulownia showed the highest value of mechanical properties. The thickness swelling and water absorption of bonded particleboard were 0.62–22.05% and 18.42 to 35.22% after 2 h soaking in water; 2.73–26.68% and 21.71–44.06% for 24 h soaking, respectively. The effect of gypsum content on mechanical properties of boards was not significant, but the thickness swelling and water absorption of boards were reduced as gypsum content increased.