The work described in this report involved examination of the development of IB strength in OSB panels as a function of pressing parameters and mat moisture content. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used in the design the experimental work employing a Box-Behnken design with four (4) variables (platen temperature, pressing time, moisture content (MC) of the face layers of the mat and face/core ratio).
Results showed that the relationships between the study parameters and IB strength fit very well the form of quadratic polynomials. Within the limits studied, it was found that increasing the pressing time and/or temperature could significantly improve the IB strength in OSB panels. Also, the study showed that bonding strength is improved by reducing mat moisture content.
It recommended that the study proceed as planned, using a thermal analysis technique (DSC) to compare the chemical reactions and curing behaviour of some commercial PF resins. Also, lap-shear tests, will be employed to evaluate strength development of the adhesives as function of time, temperature and furnish moisture content. It also recommended that a bench-making will be proceeded at laboratory and mill scale to verify the model.