Effects of adding glass wool to urea-formaldehyde resin on the properties of particleboard
Name: MICHELANGELO VARGAS FASSARELLA
Publication date: 15/04/2025
Examining board:
Name |
Role |
|---|---|
| FABRICIO GOMES GONCALVES | Presidente |
| JUAREZ BENIGNO PAES | Examinador Interno |
| ROBERTO CARLOS COSTA LELIS | Examinador Externo |
Summary: The improper disposal of glass wool waste poses an environmental challenge, where its utilization in materials engineering represents a sustainable strategy to mitigate impacts and enhance the performance of composites. This research examined the incorporation of glass wool (GW) waste as a filling material in urea-formaldehyde (UF), assessing its effects on the properties of the adhesive and its influence on the physical-mechanical, fireproof, and acoustic properties of engineered wood panels. Panels with a target density of 700 kg.m-3 were produced using different proportions of glass wool in the adhesive (T1: 0%; T2: 3.34%; T3: 4.93%; T4: 6.52%; T5: 9.49%; T6: 12.35%). Manufactured in a hydraulic press at 160 ºC with a compression force of 72 tons and a pressing duration of 10 minutes, a ratio of 12% adhesive was maintained concerning the dry mass of the wood particles. Auxiliary analyses, such as the characterization of the filling material, included X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, and infrared spectroscopy, while the panels underwent densitometric profile analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The statistical analysis involved regression, variance analysis, and the Scott-Knott test (p < 0.05). Hierarchical clustering, principal component analysis, and Pearson correlations allowed for the identification of factors and verification of the strength of associations among the parameters. The results indicated that the addition of 3.39% of GW to the adhesive improved dimensional stability, the modulus of rupture, internal bonding, and screw withdrawal of the panels. In contrast, higher contents increased the damping factor and fire resistance. These findings highlight the potential of glass wool as a functional additive, promoting the development of safer and more sustainable composites.
