SURFACE CHARACTERISTICS OF OVERLAID WOOD COMPOSITES

Abstract

Hiziroglu S & Suzuki S. 2009. Surface characteristics of overlaid wood composites. In this study, surface characteristics of commercially manufactured overlaid medium density fibreboard (MDF) and particleboard panels were evaluated. Roughness was measured randomly from the surface of overlaid samples conditioned at 55 and 93% relative humidity (RH) levels using a fine stylus profilometer. Three roughness parameters, namely, average roughness (R_a), mean peak-to-valley height (R_z) and maximum roughness (R_max) were used to determine surface profiles of samples. Statistical analysis revealed that no significant difference was found between roughness values of MDF and particleboard panels exposed to 55% RH. However, when samples were exposed to 93% RH, significant difference between initial and final roughness values was observed. Janka hardness values of samples exposed to 93% RH were significantly lower than those exposed to 55% RH. It appears that roughness of overlaid samples due to humidity exposures can be quantified using stylus type equipment and such data along with hardness characteristics may be used to improve overall quality of panels for further processes.