Properties of laminated veneer lumber (LVL) made with low density hardwood species: effect of the pressure duration

Cross-linked polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) adhesive and thin veneers of three low density wood species, namely silver maple, yellow poplar and aspen, were used to produce LVL engineered wood products using different press durations. Density, water absorption, thickness swelling, flexural strength and surface hardness were evaluated. Internal bond strength, tensile shear and block shear strengths were tested in dry, accelerated (boiling and dry) and cyclic (wet and dry) conditions. LVL made using cross-linked polyvinyl acetate and silver maple with a platen temperature of 38 °C for 5 minutes exhibited the best properties. LVL of silver maple veneers showed improved properties as compared to yellow poplar and aspen. Silver maple can be used suitably in laminated veneer flooring.