Evaluation of the mechanical, physical properties and decay resistance of particleboard made from particles impregnated with Pinus brutia bark extractives.

The mechanical, physical properties and decay resistances of particleboard made from particles impregnated with Pinus brutia bark extractives were examined. Properties included were modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, internal bond, thickness swelling, and weight loss according to European standards. The results showed that particleboards made from particles impregnated with bark extractives had significantly lower mechanical values than those made from unimpregnated particles. Impregnating wood particles with bark extractives improved the decay resistance and thickness swelling of particleboard. Increasing concentration of the extractives decreased the mechanical properties and improved the thickness swelling and decay resistance of the panels. Particleboards made from 1% P. brutia bark extractives met the specifications for modulus of rupture and internal bond strength for general purposes.