USE OF GLIRICIDIA SEPIUM (MADRE CACAO) WOOD SHAVINGS

FOR PARTICLE BOARD USING ISOCYANATE AS BINDER

A Research Project

Presented to the Faculty of the

College of Industrial Technology
Technological University of the Philippines
Manila

by
RICHELLE GLAD R. ENCARNACION
BESTMAR H. CAMPOSANO
FRELYN N. MINA

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of

Civil Engineering Technology

JULY 2015

Background of Study

The Philippines, Pearl of the Orient Seas, is very rich in natural resources. Around 15
million hectares, or almost half of the Philippines' total land area, are classified as timberland.
Most of the wood is
consumed by construction industries and as well as furniture industries. Philippines is known as
a great source of quality and good looking of furnitures. Its not surprising that these furniture
shop produces waste such as wood shavings and wood fragments. To make these waste as a
useful one, the researcher, will use these as a raw material in composite board. Among the wood
that is commonly used in an ordinary furniture shop is the kakawate or madre de cacao.

GLIRICIDIA SEPIUM or (Madre de Caccao) is known locally as a very versatile tree.

This tree though only considered as a medium tree because it grows only to about 10 or 15
meters can also be placed in the level or classifications of the NARRA, KAMAGONG, GUIJO,
DAO, ACACIA, YAKAL, MANGKOHO and so many many more hard wood trees in our
country. Its trunk when milled would yield a very hard wood. When it is properly sanded and
finished would yield a very smooth and very shiny surface. Before it become furnitures like
tables, benches, and chairs it produce wood shavings after it is being sanded.

Large-scale use of sawdust and shavings still remains a major problem. Economical
disposal of sawdust and shavings is a problem of growing concern to the wood industries.
Enormous quantities of sawdust are produced annually by sawmills. The sawdust produced in
cutting a thousand board feet of 1 inch hard- wood lumber with a saw cutting a 1/4 inch kerf is at

least (0.25 12) x 1000 = 20.8 cubic feet of solid wood. At a typical green weight of 52 pounds
per cubic foot for
solid hardwood, this amount of sawdust would weigh 1,085 pounds. The same air-dry wood (12
pct. moisture content) would weigh 36 pounds per cubic foot, hence the sawdust would weigh
750 pounds when dried to 12 percent moisture content. Planing and machining of lumber and
other manufacture from wood leads to further residues. A planer mill produces about 600 pounds
of dry residue per thousand board feet. (USDA 1996).

Wood Shavings a general term for the waste materials obtained in working wood by
cutting it with woodworking machine tools and for certain semifinished products made by the
woodworking industry. Small sized sawmill residues such as wood shavings and saw dust in
many part of the world are simply dumped or burned. In central Europe sawdust and wood
shaving is used in cattle farm as bedding material. Because it can be easily disposed as part of
liquid manure. (Long 2006). Considering the wood shavings that is being produced and wasted.
The present study intends to recycle those wood shavings of Kakawate (Madre Cacao)in some
furniture shop nearby our area as a raw material on the particle board that we will make.

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

General Objective
The general objective of this study is to develop a Particle Board using Kakawate (Madre
Cacao) Wood shavings as raw material and Isocyanate as Binder

Specific Objective
Specifically, the study aims to:

1. Determine the bulk density of Kakawate (Madre cacao).

2. To develop a Composite Board using Kakawate (Madre Cacao) and Isocyanate as
Binder.
3. Determine the physical and mechanical property of Kakawate (Madre Cacao).
4. Evaluate the acceptability of the output.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study focused on the development of Composite Board using Kakawate (Madre
Cacao) shavings and Isocyanate as Binder.

The general purpose of this study is to use Kakawate (Madre Cacao) shavings from the
furniture shop near our areas in Lemery, Batangas. as a raw material.

The development and testing of particle boards were conducted in Forest Product
Research Development Institute located at the University of the Philippines Los Baos Laguna
this first semester of school year 2015-2016. Preliminary size of board is mold in a 30 cm x 30
cm x 12mm molder and pressed into the target density. The boards were cured for 3 days. The
tests conducted were Water Absorption (WA), Thickness Swelling (TS) for the physical
properties of the board, and Bending Strength (BS), Internal bond strength and Face-Screw
Holding (FSH) for the mechanical properties of the board. The board is limited and capable only
for interior use as a non load bearing board to be used as a ceiling cover and wall partition cover.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Composite board is a manufactured wood product. It isa actually quite environmentally
friendly as it built from compressed wood shavings and shredded wood scraps, held together
with a type of resin, Catalyst 100. It is a cheaper and denser than hardwood, but is not very
strong or
resistant to moisture.

The importance of the study can be viewed on the following perspective:

Students (Civil Engineering Technology). This study will be a huge contribution to the
body of knowledge of the students whos studying about composite board and researching about
wood shavings of Kakawate (Madre Cacao) and Catalyst 100.

Engineering Industry. The result of the study will serves as a guide in this particular
phenomenon and further it

will create a widen perspective about ways of producing an

economical composite board.

Consumer. If the study is tested and passed the Standard test it will help in their
budgeting because of low cost version of composite board.

Community (Provinces). This study will serve as a primary source of their livelihood,
especially to area where Kakawate(Madre Cacao) can be found and it will help them to expand
their business.

Chapter 2
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
This chapter presents the review of related literature and studies underlying the
framework of the study. It includes the conceptual model of the study and operational definition
of terms.
Review of Related Literature and Studies
Foresters everywhere are alert to the necessity of maintaining and increasing forest
production by better forest practices. They are even working to develop hybrid species that grow
more rapidly and produce wood more quickly than the parent species, thus increasing the
potential productive capacity of the forest land. But all these efforts must be supported by more
efficient harvesting and utilization of the forest crop, for it is of little use to grow more timber
and then throw a large part of it away. In the more highly developed countries of the world,
relatively little wood goes to waste although there is still the possibility of finding higher uses for
much of it. But in the regions of the world where great areas of virgin forest still prevail, only
about one quarter to one third of the wood growing on the land reaches the consumer in the form
of finished products. The rest is left on the land to rot or is lost as bark, sawdust, shavings, slabs,

trimmings, defective pieces, and in other forms as the log progresses through the various
manufacturing steps that convert it into consumer products. The waste is caused by the inability
of the logger or the manufacturer to find profitable uses for his residues.
The problem is especially great in tropical countries where there are so very many species
of timber but only a relatively small number find commercial use. The noncommercial species in
the forest must wait until research provides profitable ways to use them or the scarcity of wood
becomes sufficiently acute to force them into use despite their unpopularity. In the Philippines,
for
example, there are some 3,000 species of trees that grow to one foot or more in diameter but, at
most, only about 200 species find use and only about 60 of these are commercially important.
Most of the 2,800 remaining species are not plentiful but all of them undoubtedly could be used
commercially in some form or other if their properties were thoroughly understood.
The tonnage of wood and bark that goes to waste in the Philippines every year is
enormous, and this is potential raw material for innumerable industries that could provide
employment for thousands and increase the contribution of the forests to the welfare of the
nation without increasing the drain on the forests. When the world's population was small and the
forests covered the earth, efficiency in wood utilization had no significance. Now that population
is increasing at so fast a rate and forests are shrinking rapidly, the whole tree must be utilized and
not just part of it. (Hunt 2000).

Particle Board
Cost Effective

Particleboard is less expensive than many building material alternatives because it

is mass produced and can often be manufactured using recycled materials or waste products that
would have been discarded.

Stable and Consistent

Particleboard is a strong, cheaper alternative to plywood that will not warp the
way some solid woods and plywood materials can, making it a ideal product for door cores and
cabinets. The manufacturing process compresses wood fibres into a single board with many
layers. Since the boards are compressed wood fibres, the durability and texture is consistent
throughout, with fine wood chips in the outer layers and larger chips in the centre of the board.
Particleboard most often serves as a substance material behind or under decorative veneers.
Customizable
Manufactures can create particleboard with the specific load bearing
requirements, design, veneers, sizes within limitations. The boards are available in a variety of
standard types and styles to suit the builders project needs, but if the builder needs a nonstandard board, a manufacturer can produce it.

Moisture Resistant and Fire Retardant

Manufacturers can add moisture resistant and fire resistant properties to
particleboard during the manufacturing process with the addition of chemicals, coating or
specially formulated resins. Standard particleboard is not an appropriate material to use in areas

where water is concern, but you can substitute specially formulated moisture resistant
particleboard in these areas.

Characteristics of Particle Board

Particleboard is manufactured from the wood chips, resin and wax. It is a
composite material manufactured by compressing wood particles, resin and wax. The completed
boards are durable and consistent throughout. People use particleboard in furniture, shelving,
cabinets, flooring, work surfaces and doors. These boards are appropriate for use in kitchens and
bathrooms where moisture is concern only when coated with a moisture resistant barrier of
manufactured with moisture resistant resin. Particle is a versatile building material that is
sustainable and recyclable.

The Disadvantage of Particle Board

Particleboard is an engineered, manufactured, wood product that was first
introduced to the building industry in the 1940s. A hot-pressed composite made from wood
flakes, chips, splinders, shavings, sawdust and binding agent such as synthetic resin,
particleboard has certain desirable attributes. It has great density and weight for its size, and that
makes it strong. It is less expensive that conventional wood. Its disadvantages are related to the
fact that is a heat and glue molded wood product.

Longevity
Particleboard is not considered a long-lasting material. the major disadvantage of
this material is its inability to resist and withstand moisture. Once particleboard absorbs moisture

it could possibly swell, causing unsightly rises in flooring materials such as carpet and vinyl.
Unfortunately particle board has no real moisture barrier that can prevent absorption of water or
other liquids. Once particle board has been exposed to moisture, it loss its strength. The particle
fibers no longer bond, which causes the board to break apart into smaller pieces, making it to
replace the particleboard.

Durability
Particleboard can never be used for structural support. For example, plywood and
OSB can be used directly over the floor joist as structural support for heavy objects.
Particleboard cant support walls or other heavy loads, which makes particleboard good only as
an additional layer of flooring to add thickness to subflooring.

Moisture Retention
Particleboards tends to absorb moisture. The ends or edges of a sheet of the
particleboard, usually 4 feet by 8 feet in dimension, are even more vulnerable to absorbing
moisture than the flat surface. Once moisture penetrates, particleboard is inclined to weaken,
warp and lose its characteristics.

Expansion and Discoloration

When particleboard comes in contact with moisture, it can expand and darken in
color. For that reason, unless it has been manufactured and treated with a sealing agent
specifically for exterior use, it is not used outdoors. It can be and has been used for the kitchens

and bathrooms as a subsurface. Provided it is covered so water cannot penetrate and reach it, it is
a relabel product.

Gliricidia sepium ( Madre Cacao)

Gliricidia sepium ( Madre Cacao) is a medium-sized tree and can grow to from 10
to 12 meters high. The bark is smooth and its color can range from a whitish gray to deep redbrown. It has composite leaves that can be 30 cm long. Each leaf is composed of leaflets that are
about 2 to 7 cm long and 1 to 3 cm wide. The flowers are located on the end of branches that
have no leaves. These flowers have a bright pink to lilac color that is tinged with white. A pale
yellow spot is usually at the flower's base. The tree's fruit is a pod which is about 10 to 15 cm in
length. It is green when unripe and becomes yellow-brown when it reaches maturity. The pod
produces 4 to 10 round brown seeds .G. sepium is also used for its medicinal and insect repellent
properties.

Uses/applications
Living fences/hedges, cut and carry feed for ruminants, alley farming, protein
banks, green manure , support, shade, honey, rodenticide, medicinal, firewood, pigmentation of
eggs.

Fertiliser
As green manure, 15 t/ha/year of leaf biomass can provide the equivalent of 40
kg/ha/year N to companion crops and pastures. Tolerant of low soil fertility , but will respond to
lime on soils with high Al saturation.

Soil requirements
Adapted to a wide range of well-drained soils. In its native range, often found on
highly eroded soils of volcanic origin with pH 4.5-6.2, but is also found on sands, heavy clays
and slightly alkaline, calcareous limestone soils. Work in Peru suggests that gliricidia is suitable
for acid, infertile soils. However, in Indonesia, there was poor survival of plants on soils with a
high Al saturation. In Australia, the tree is thought to be suitable for low-calcium soils.
Gliricidia does not grow well on wet or waterlogged soils.

Moisture
Drought tolerant and adapted to an annual rainfall regime of 650-3,500 mm.
Largely deciduous where dry seasons are moderate to severe, but evergreen where there is
sufficient moisture throughout the year.

Temperature
Mean annual temperatures across the native range vary considerably, from 2129C. Leaves abscise when night temperatures fall below 15C. Grows to an altitude of 1,200 m
asl in its native range, possibly to as high as 1,600 m asl .

Reproductive development
Strongly self-incompatible despite having hermaphrodite flowers pollinated by
insects. Flowering begins at the start of the dry season at about 6-8 months of age, and can
continue into March in some native populations. Trees at lower coastal sites flower well before

those at higher altitudes. A tree can produce vast numbers of flowers (up to 30,000) that attract a
wide variety of insects. Pod ripening takes 45-60 days. In very wet areas, plants may flower but
produce little if any fruit.

Defoliation
Gliricidia tolerates repeated cutting. For forage, first cut 8-12 months after
sowing at 0.5-1.0 m above soil level, and thereafter every 2-4 months depending on rainfall and
temperature .
Gliricidia is largely deciduous in the dry season. To prevent leaf loss at this time, cut at
the end of the rains and again at 8 weeks into the dry season. A final cut at 16 weeks into the dry
season may be possible. Gliricidia is normally used as a cut-and-carry forage and is rarely
directly grazed. Goats accustomed to gliricidia will eat the bark as well as leaves and small
stems and may kill young trees.

Agronomy
Sowing depth for seeding into the field or nursery beds is 2 cm. Scarification is
unnecessary, and germination rates of >90% are typical. Seedlings establish rapidly, generally
reaching a height of 3 m before flowering at 6-8 months of age.
Trees can also be established rapidly from cuttings, using stakes of 5-6 months of age, 1.5 m
long and with a diameter of 3.5-4.0 cm. If the moisture is adequate, foliage will appear in four
weeks. For living fences, use stakes 1.5-2.5 m long with diameters of 5-10 cm, planted 1.5-5.0
m apart to 20 cm depth. For densely planted protein banks, use stakes 50 cm long and six
months of age. Various planting patterns can be used e.g. double rows or triangular. Plant

populations range from 4,000-10,000 trees/ha. Very high densities are used in small protein
banks. The direction of planting should be east to west to maximise sunlight interception.

Ability to spread
Will not spread under grazing as recruiting seedlings will not compete strongly
with established grasses and are easily killed by grazing livestock. Weed potential pioneer
species following slash and burn agriculture in native range. Limited seed production in exotic
locations due to lack of pollinators and unsuitable environments for seed set may limit weed
risk. Severe weed in Jamaica, but not reported as a weed elsewhere.

Nutritive value
High nutritive value. Crude protein content 18-30% and in vitro digestibility of
60-65%. With the exception of palatability , variability in nutritive quality among provenances
has not been assessed.

Palatability/acceptability
Some palatability problems occur with ruminants depending on prior experience.
Nave animals seem to refuse leaves on the basis of smell, often rejecting them without tasting,
suggesting that the problem lies with volatile compounds released from the leaf surface.
However, no palatability problems are reported in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Colombia or Guatemala
where successive generations of ruminants have been fed gliricidia. Wilting leaves for 12-24
hours before feeding increases intake. Prior experience is the most important attribute of
palatability , so that local landraces are most preferred. While nave animals are used,

provenances from Mexico tend to be less palatable compared to those from Costa Rica and
Colombia.

Toxicity
Toxicity well known in Central America, where the leaves or the ground bark,
mixed with cooked maize, are used as a rodenticide. This toxicity is thought to be due to the
conversion by bacteria of coumarin to dicoumerol during fermentation. May be toxic or inhibit
growth of monogastric animals such as rabbits and poultry if fed as a sufficiently high
component of the diet. Little evidence of toxic effects with ruminants fed either fresh or wilted
leaves.
HCN concentrations of up to 4 mg/kg and cyanogens may be present. High levels of nitrates
(during the rainy season) are suspected of causing `cattle fall syndrome' in Colombia, but levels
declined to negligible in winter. Gliricidia may be a `nitrate accumulator'. Unidentified
alkaloids and tannins have also been reported. Evidence of toxicity under practical feeding
conditions is limited. The balance of evidence suggests that the plant may be toxic to nonruminants but conclusive evidence of toxicity to ruminants under normal feeding is lacking.

Production potential
Annual leaf DM production varies from 2-20 t/ha/year, depending on a wide
range of factors. In fodder plots, annual yields of 5-16 t/ha of leaf DM, or up to 43 t/ha fresh
leaves have been obtained. In Nigeria, gliricidia hedgerows interplanted with 4 rows of Panicum
grasses yielded 20 t/ha/year of total DM (grass and gliricidia).

Severe leaf fall occurs following flowering in seasonally dry environments. Harvesting of leaf in
the early dry season will delay flowering, prevent or limit losses from leaf fall, and maximise
regrowth. In West Timor, Indonesia, highest levels of dry season (March-November) forage
yields were obtained from harvesting in April and again in June and August.

Animal production
Gliricidia is normally used as a green forage, protein supplement to low-quality
tropical forages and by-products for cattle, sheep and goats. It may be used as the sole feed in
the dry season. Feeding levels have been 1-3% of body weight for cattle and goats, indicating a
supplementation level of 30-100%, although a 20-40% level is more common. Increases in
liveweight gains of approximately 25% have been reported for steers grazing gliricidia-grass
pastures, compared with steers grazing grass alone. Results from experiments with dairy cows
and buffaloes reported similar or slightly increased milk yield and milk fat yield when
concentrates were replaced by gliricidia forage up to about 25% of intake. The effects of
gliricidia forage on reproducing ruminants have been variable. In one trial, ewes supplemented
with gliricidia produced a higher lamb crop, better lamb weights and had reduced ewe weight
loss compared with those not fed gliricidia. In an unrelated trial, lambing results were poorer
when gliricidia was fed, due to lower feed intake, possibly as a result of insufficient adaptation to
the forage . Laying chickens fed sun-cured gliricidia at 4.5% of total diet gave good egg
production, egg weight and yolk colour. Yellow yolk colour can be achieved by feeding milled
leaves at 2-4% of the ration. Diets containing up to 10% gliricidia can be fed to growing chicks
without affecting performance and survival, but higher rates may have anti-nutritive effects.

Genetics/breeding
There are no breeding programs involving gliricidia. The Oxford Forestry
Institute evaluated 28 provenances of gliricidia in multi-location trials. See notes below on
promising accessions. There appears to be only small gains achievable from recurrent selection
for leaf biomass (8% from a single cycle of selection).
Seed production
Produces abundant seed. Seeds are shed from pods through explosive dehiscence with
seed dispersal distances of up to 40 m. Seed production varies with provenance, ranging from 75
kg/ha for Belen Rivas up to 180 kg/ha for Monterrico, based on 7 seeds/pod and a seed weight of
8,000 seeds/kg.

Wood Shavings

Wood Shavings ordinarily come from air-dried or kiln-dried wood. Shavings and sawdust
produced from machining dry wood of a single species afford their producer the best prospects
for marketing waste material. Uniform particle sizes (achieved by screening) are needed for
some uses. For most uses only fresh material is acceptable. Sawdust and shavings, when exposed
to the weather, deteriorate very rapidly and lose much of their value. Mixed dry sawdusts are
good for briquetting for fuel. Absorbency, bulk, and chemical composition combine to make
sawdust and shavings or chipped wood and bark of value in improving the physical condition of
soil especially after the material is used as bedding for animals or poultry before application to
the land. The economics of this outlet have been examined .Although wood itself contains no

appreciable fertilizer chemicals, wood particles used as bedding can absorb liquid manure, which
contains 90 percent of the total nitrogen in manure, in addition to carrying the solid manure.

Resin
Any of various of the solid or semi-solid amorphous fusible flammable natural organic
substances that usually transparent, or tanslucent yellowish to brown.

History of Isocyanate
Isocyanate resins were developed during World War II and quickly became known as
adhesives that can bond anything to anything (Marra, 1992). Since they were first introduced
to the German particleboard market in the early 1970s, the use of MDI (4,4-methylenediphenyl
isocyanate) binders in composite panels has grown significantly. Isocyanates are a family of
highly reactive, low molecular weight chemicals. They are widely used in the manufacture of
flexible and rigid foams, fibers, coatings such as paints and varnishes, and elastomers, and are
increasingly used in the automobile industry, autobody repair, and building insulation materials.
Spray-on polyurethane products containing isocyanates have been developed for a wide range of
retail, commercial, and industrial uses to protect cement, wood, fiberglass, steel and aluminum,
including protective coatings for truck beds, trailers, boats, foundations, and decks.

Production of Isocynate

Isocyanate may be synthesizes by various methods. The most common method used
commercially to produce isocyanates monomers is the phosgene-based process (Elvers et al
1989). Free amines are reached with excess phosgene in an inert organic solvent at low
temperature; the resulting slurry carbamoyl chlorides and anime hydrochloride is then heated at
elevated temperature in the presence of the excess phosgene to give the desired isocyanate.
However, the industrial use of this phosgenation process has determined impact on health, safety,
and the environment. Because phosgene is highly toxic and reactive safety precautions and
diligent care are required(to prevent accidental release of this chemical) in process design, plant
operation handling, storage and transport of this hazardous substance. The strong acid byproduct, hydrochloric acid, is also a hazardous substance. The strong acid by-product,
hydrochloric acid, is also a hazardous industrial chemical.

Identification and Application of Isocyanate

The most widely used industrial isocyanates and their applications are:
TDI, toluene di-isocyanate: a liquid, commercially available as a mixture of 2,4 and 2,6
isomers, which is used to produce flexible foams for furniture and car seats;
MDI, diphenyl methane di-isocyanate: a solid, commercially available in the form of a
concentrated solution to produce rigid foams for more solid car parts such as car bumper bars or
for thermal insulation;
HDI, hexamethylene di-isocyanate: a liquid, pre-polymers of which may be used in some paints
and lacquers, increasingly for car re-finishing;
NDI, naphthalene di-isocyanate: a solid which is used in the manufacture of some elastomers;

 MIC, methyl isocyanate: an intermediate in the production of some pesticides;

wear-resistant polymers as in shoe soles or small wheels;
pre-polymers for industrial use;
glues for a range of applications;
binding agents for moulding sand in foundries; and
electrical insulating varnishes.

Philippine National Standards (PNS)

Standards for composite panels are necessary for product to be accepted in major markets
to give distributors assurance that the products acquire minimum exact quality level of standards
which first were accepted for their values before mass production into a common use. Three
standard organizations have a major influence on the quality of composite panels in the United
States (U.S.) and other foreign countries namely the American Society for Testing and Materials
(ASTM) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Standards
Organization (ISO) (Youngquist,1997).
Each country generally has developed standards for the production of panel products. In
the Philippines the Bureau of Standards of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)
created a Philippine Standards (PNS) for Particle board.
Cement bonded board was conceptualized as a composite board made up of Agro Forest
Materials and coated with cement. Since the CBB was a new concept developed by the Forest
Product and Research Development Institute, and was categorized as composite boards. In the
absence of a criterion specifically for CBB, the FPRDI adopted the criteria in the Philippine

National Standard for Particle Board. In which the mechanical properties is determined by the
following factors Modulus of Rupture (MOR) and Face Screw Holding (FSH) while its Physical
Properties is determined with two factors the Thickness Swelling

Test (TS) and Water

Absorption Test (WA). Standard Curing time for 28 days is required for each manufactured
board. Philippine National Standard (PNS) categories the type of board as listed in Table 1.
Classifications are accord
ing to the bending strength of the board such as Type 200, Type 150, and Type 100.
The Type 200 refers to as the high density board, Type 150 represents the medium density
board while the Type 100 belongs to the low density fiber board. Also in the table were the
corresponding Bending Strength, Face Screw Holding, Thickness Swelling and Water Absorption
requirements for the different types of board.

Table 1.
PNS Strength Requirement for Particle Board

Classification

Bending
Strength
kgs/cm2

Face Screw
Holding
kgs

min

mina

1.1 Type 200

180

50

1.2 Type150

140

40

1.3 Type 100

80

30

2. Veneered

250

2.1 Longitidunal

90

2.2 Lateral

90

Thickness
Swelling
%

Water
Absorption
%

max

max

20%

40%

1. Pressed

and
Impregnated
Paper- coated
Particleboards

Using screw No.7 and boards not less than 12mm thick

For boards not less than 15mm thick

Source: Philippine National Standard

PNS Test Method

Physical Properties
Thickness Swelling and Water Absorption
The Thickness Swelling (TS) and Water Absorption (WA) are the tests conducted to
measure the moisture resistance of the particleboard and determine the moisture content of the
board as a percentage of its dry weight.
Weigh the test specimen to an accuracy of 0.1 g. Measure the thickness in an accuracy of
0.1 mm at four points midway along its side 2.5 cm from the edge of the test specimen and use
the average in computing the thickness swelling. Immerse in water at 28 4 C horizontal to a
depth of 3 cm beneath the water surface, with the smooth surface facing upward.
After 24 hours, remove the specimen and allow draining vertically for 10 minutes. Wipe
off excess water with blotting paper or cloth and weigh the specimen and measure its thickness
immediately. Calculate the water absorption and thickness swelling to the nearest 1.0% by the
following formula:

Where:
WA = Water absorption, %

TS = Thickness Swelling, %

W1 =Initial mass, g

T1= Initial thickness, mm

W2 = Final mass, g

T2 = Final thickness, mm

Mechanical Properties
Face Screw Holding
The Face Screw Holding (FSH) is a test conducted on screws threaded into the board to
measure the resistance to withdrawal in a plane normal to the face.
The specimen shall be at least 2.5 cm thick, otherwise glue two or more pieces together to
achieve at the 2.5 cm minimum thickness. Using a 2.8 mm diameter drill, bore lead holes into the
test specimen 17 mm at midwidth, at least 5 cm from the end of the specimen. Thread 25 cm
n0.10 wood screw into the specimen. Perform the test immediately after the screw has been
embedded.

Attach the specimen holding fixture to the lower plate of the testing machine. Insert the
specimen in the fixture with the head of the screw up. Engage the head of the screws by the load
applying fixture equipped with a slot for easy attachment. Attach this loading fixture to the upper
plate of the testing machine. Apply load to the specimen throughout the test by a uniform motion
of the movable head of the testing machine at a rate of1.5 mm / min. Compute the Face Screw
Holding by the following formula:

Where:
FSH = Face Screw Holding, kg
P1 = Load in the left side, kgf
P2 = Load in the right side, kgf
Modulus of Rupture (Static Bending Strength)

The Modulus of Rupture (MOR) is a test conducted that measures the flexural breaking
load (bending strength) of the board.
Using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) with apparatus as shown in figure 1, apply
load to the finished or smooth surface of the test specimen. At a uniform rate of about 5 cm/min
and determine the maximum load at a span of 10 cm. Calculate the modulus of rupture by the
formula:

Where:
MOR = Modulus of rupture kg/cm2
P

= Maximum load, kgf

= Span, 10 cm

= width, cm

= thickness, cm

Universal Testing Machine

A universal testing machine, also known as a universal tester,materials testing

machineor materials

test

frame,

is

used

to test the tensile

stress and compressive

strength of materials. It is named after the fact that it can perform many standard tensile and
compression tests on materials, components, and structures.
Components

Load cell refers to a force transducer or other means of measuring the load is required.
Periodiccalibration is usually called for.
Cross headis a movable cross head (crosshead) is controlled to move up or down.
Usually this is at a constant speed: sometimes called a constant rate of extension (CRE) machine.
Some machines can program the crosshead speed or conduct cyclical testing, testing at constant
force, testing at constant deformation, etc. Electromechanical, servo-hydraulic, linear drive, and
resonance drive are used.
Output devicerefers to the means of providing the test result when needed. Some older
machines have dial or digital displays and chart recorders. Many newer machines have a
computer interface for analysis and printing.
Test fixtures refers to the specimen holding jaws, and related sample making equipment
are called for in many test methods.

The set-up and usage are detailed in a test method, often published by a standards
organization. This specifies the sample preparation, fixturing, gauge length (the length which is
under study or observation), analysis, etc.
Once the machine is started it begins to apply an increasing load on specimen.
Throughout the tests the control system and its associated software record the load and extension
or compression of the specimen.
Machines range from very small table top systems to ones with over 53 MN (12
million lbf) capacity.

Analysis of the Compressive Strength of Concrete Using Kakawate (Gliricidia sepium)

Jacq. Kunth Ex Walph. Wood Ash Cement

The acceptable disposal waste such as ash and sludge is a growing problem. A related
problem is the recycling of other waste materials such as tires, glass and plastics. Because of the
high-volume of kakawate tree in the region and that ash of kakawate wood is considered waste
taken from dirty kitchen of every household, the researchers as engineers instigated to recycle
the ash for admixture construction material for low-cost housing projects. With this study the
researchers first proved that the compressive strength of concrete cylinder mixed with kakawate
(Gliricidia sepium) Jacq. Kunth ex walph using the proportion 20% ash and 80% cement for the
mixture 1:2:3 can achieve the consistent quality demanded a safe concrete structures. The result
of the laboratory testing can be a basis in proceeding with other proportions. Information is
needed about the wood materials physical properties. Further, environmental and waste
management issues must be discussed as basis for the acceptability and practicability of waste
and recycled material (WRMs). Researchers may consider the sustainability and practicability of
kakawate ash and cement ratio recommended for construction of low-cost housing projects
without sacrificing the strength of the structure. (Aman, Amistad, Rabena 2009)

Physical and Mechanical Properties of the Thermoplastic Composite from Gliricidia

Sepium
The study was conducted to determine the fiber morphology, density and the chemical properties
of Gliricidia sepium concerning tree age. Thermoplastic composite boards of four variables:
three tree ages (1,2 and 6 years old tree), four wood particles sizes (75JU, 125^, 250|a and

unscreen), three filler loadings (10, 30 and 50%), maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene
(MAPP) additions unMAPP and 3% MAPP was manufactured and tested for tensile, impact,
dimensional stability, bending properties conforming to the BS and ASTM standards. Scanning
Electron Microscopy (SEM) of tensile test samples was performed to determine the bonding sites
as evidence of bonding.
In fiber morphology, the fibers were short (approximately 0.9mm) while the fiber wall thickness
remained the same for all age groups. The fiber diameter and lumen width was the highest with
older tree. The specific gravity and chemical properties increase with age. Most of the properties
studied increased with age except for fiber wall thickness that was approximately the same.
Gliricidia-filled thermoplastic composite board properties varied significantly with tree age,
particle size, filler loading and MAPP addition. An increase in particle size resulted in the
decrease mechanical properties and water absorption (WA). Smaller particles were found to be
more homogenous with the thermoplastic matrix giving better mechanical properties. The WA
and mechanical properties of the thermoplastic composite were significantly affected by
increasing the amount of filler loadings. Without MAPP as the coupling agent, the wood particles
behaved as standard fillers. The addition of MAPP was found to improve the filler dispersion
leading to better mechanical strength. SEM images gave clear indications of interactions in the
matrix between MAPP (3%) and unMAPP (0%) thermoplastic boards. The specific objective of
this study was to determine the physical and mechanical properties of the thermoplastics
composites from Gliricidia sepium in relation to tree age, wood particles size, filler loading and
maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) addition. (Yamani 2011)

Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Walp.: hardwood with potential for pulp and paper-making.

The anatomy of the wood of Gliricidia sepium has been studied for suitability as
pulpwood. Dimensions of the wood fibre were measured microscopically to determine Runkel
ratio and the
Flexibility coefficient. The fibre morphology ratios inform preliminary decisions on the
suitability of the species as pulpwood. Slides of microtome sections were made of the wood for
microscopic study of the cell and tissue types and their relative proportions that constitute the
wood. Low Runkel and high Flexibility ratios and a preponderance of fibres relative to other
cells are desirable and would normally encourage the pulping and paper-making trials. The wood
was pulped and hand-made paper sheets were tested for physical strength properties. The studies
were duplicated for Gmelina arborea, which is already in use as pulp and paper-making
hardwood, for comparison. Gliricidia sepium has Runkel ratio of 1.22 and coefficient of
flexibility of 0.45 compared with Gmelina's 0.19 and 0.88 respectively. The relative fibre volume
for Gliricidia is 58.9% and about 41% other cells combined, while Gmelina has 72% fibres and
28% all other cells together. Pulp yields in Gliricidia and Gmelina are 46.5% and 49.2%
respectively, while both species showed some good physical properties in the paper sheets:
Gliricidia produced Burst property of 3.75 kg cm-2 and Tear of 155 g at pulp freeness of 51SR,
while Gmelina recorded 3.98 kgcm-2 and Tear of 165 g at freeness 36SR. These values of
physical strength properties combined with the reported features of the wood anatomy and the
vegetative growth characteristics reported from the literature support the conclusion that
Gliricidia sepium has great potential as a good pulpwood. (Kpikpi, W. M.; Sackey, I.)

Coconut Midrib Bonded Board

Considering the Philippine economic status, most of the Filipinos cannot afford to buy
quality materials. Because of that the researcher came up with an idea of using coconut midrib as
materials for cement board. The study used the experimental method to determine the most
effective composition of coconut midrib and cement using 10:90, 30:70, and 50:50 coconut
midrib:cement ratio. Another variable considered were the water content of 60%, 80% and
100% and the used of accelarators such as calcium chloride and aluminum sulfate. The test result
yielded that the midrib content affects the physical and mechanical property of the board. Also,
the water content contributed to the strength of the board, while, the accelerator did not
contributed in any factor (Buenaventura, et.all,2011).

Preliminary Report on Utilization Potential of Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Steud for Timber

Declining availability of the prime economic species in timber market has led to the introduction
of Lesser-Used-Species (LUS). Their acceptability demands information on their wood technical
properties. This study investigates wood properties of Gliricidia sepium to determine its potential for
timber in Nigeria. Test specimens obtained from three trees at breast height were prepared according to
BS 373 standard and Poku et al. (2001). Hatt-Turner impact machine and Hounsfield Tensometer were
used to determine mechanical properties. Mean Moisture Content (MC) of 8.62% was insignificantly
lower in the wood nearest the pith. Wood Basic Density (WBD) was significantly (p<0.05) heavier
(1062.7 kg m-3) nearest the pith than nearest the bark (987.8 kg m-3) with a mean of 1025.3 kg m-3.
Tangential (TS) and Volumetric Shrinkage (VS) were significantly higher in the wood nearest the bark

with mean of 4.3 and 6.9%, respectively. Mean impact bending was 0.65 m with no significant difference
between the wood samples. Modulus Of Rupture (MOR) and elasticity (MOE) were significantly higher
(153.8, 7678.1 N mm-2) nearest the pith than 85.8 and 5580.21 N mm-2 for wood nearest the bark,
respectively. Significant correlation exists between MC vs WBD, r = -0.82; RS vs TS, r = 0.91 and VS, r
= 0.97; TS vs VS, r = 0.97; IB vs MOR/MOE, r = -0.83 and MOR, r = 0.89; MOR vs MOR/MOE, r =
0.90; MOR/MOE vs RS, r = -0.91 and MOR/MOE vs VS, r = -0.86. G. sepium has potential to be a major
LUS timber and could substitute some economic species in Nigerias timber market.

Particle board process using polymeric isocyanate/release agent.

A binder system is disclosed which incorporates an internal release agent and comprises a
mixture of polyisocyanate resin, furfural and an ester of phosphoric acid. In the process of the
invention the ester of phosphoric acid is placed into solution with furfural and subsequently
blended with the polyisocyanate. Increased stability of the binder system is observed as well as
providing for increased mold releasing capabilities.Therefore an object of the subject invention is
an improved binder with internal release agent for use with particle boards and the like.
Another object of the subject invention is an improved binder comprising a blend of isocyanate
resin and organic esters of ortho-phosphoric acid.
A further object of the subject invention is an improved isocyanate binder having an
internal release agent comprising an organic ester of ortho-phosphoric acid where the release
agent blended as a furfural solution with the polyisocyanate, for increased stability and improved
physical properties on curing.
These and other objects are obtained in accordance with the subject invention wherein
there is provided on improved binder which incorporates an internal release agent of an organic

PROCESS

ester of ortho-phosphoric acid. More particularly, the invention comprises an improved process
for the preparation of particle board in which the wood chips are contacted with a polyisocyanate
having about 0.1 percent to 5 percent by weight of the polyisocyanate resin solids present of an
organic ester of ortho-phosphoric acid of the formula: ##STR1## including salts and derivative
mixtures of such compounds, and polyphosphates of the formula: ##STR2## including the
cyclometaphosphates (n-3). In the above formulae each "R" is independently selected from the
class consisting of an alyky group having from 3 to 35 carbon atoms inclusive; X=1-3 and Y=02. X in each instance may be oxygen or sulfur. Related phosphoric acid esters may be utilized as
release agents of the subject invention as further set forth and described in the above identified
U.S. Pat. No. 4,257,995. (Bogner 1983)
Conceptual Framework
Based on the foregoing concepts, theories and findings of related Iiterature, studies and
insights taken from them, a conceptual model was developed as shown below.
OUTPUT

INPUT

Figure 1. Conceptual Model of the Study

The conceptual model as illustrated in Figure 3 shows the different stages of the process
involved to achieve the objectives of the study.
The input stage involves the knowledge requirements to gather ideas in the different
medium of instruction for the conceptualization of the study, and the tools and equipment needed
in the development of this research.
The second stage involves the material gathering, preparation of materials needed,
mixing, molding, and pressing of composite materials, the curing time for the specimen, testing
of physical and mechanical properties of the specimen and the analysis of data gathered.The
material gathering includes the collection of wood shaving being collected in some furniture
shop near in Lemery Batangas. Molding is a process of developing the specimen into its desired
shape. Curing was a processed to condition the board.
The evaluation stage is the assessment of the output in the following criteria: Aesthetics,
Workability, Durability, Economy,Safety, and Saleability.

Operational Definition of Terms

The following terms are defined operationally to better understand the project study:

Curing

It is important aspect of construction work and especially most

important in case of cement concrete is hard, stronger and

durable.

Mixing

is to combine or put together to form one substance or mass.

Molding

is a process in which a composite material will be formed into its

desired shape.

Particle Board

refers to the another panel product, is manufactured of particles

of wood glued together.

Pressing

refers to the application of a pressure.

Ratio

is a relation in degree or number two similar things.

Resin

refers to the bonding material used in manufacturing composite

panel.

Utilization

is the primary method by which asset performance is measured.

Modulus of Rupture

the measure of the force necessary to break a given substance

across as a beam, expressed by eighteen times the load

which is

to break a bar of one inch square, supported flat

wise at two

points one foot apart, and loaded in the, middle

between the

points of support.

Thickness Swelling Test determines the amount of water the board will absorb after
soaking for a specific time.

Moisture Content

is the quantity of water contained in a material, such as soil,

rock ceramics or wood. Water content is used in a wide

range
porosity

from 0(completely dry) to the value of the materials

at saturation.

Chapter 3
METHODOLOGY
In this chapter, the methods of the study are displayed. the steps was followed for the
accurate result of the study; the methods from gathering the latest test of the sample of materials.
This chapter also shows the project design, project development, experimentation, testing and
evaluation procedure.
Project Design
The particleboard in this study is made up of Gliricidia sepium ( Madre Cacao)
shavings and Isocyanate. These two components are mixed together, folded and pressed into the
desired density and temperature of the board. Three experimental designs were used in this study.
The board has a dimension of 30cmx30cmx1.2cm and has the density of 0.5g/cc.

Design composition
MIX DESIGN

Gliricidia Sepium (Madre

Cacao)- Shavings
Isocyanate Ratio

1
2
3

99:1
98.2
97:3

Project Development

Gliricidia Sepium (Madre

Cacao)Shavings

855.36 g
845.72 g
838.08 g

Isocyanate

8.64 g
17.28 g
25.82 g

Kakawate (Madre Cacao) wood shavings and Isocynate were the two chosen components
Gathering
Materialswere collected from some furniture
to be studied. The Kakawate (Madre Cacao)
woodofshavings

shop in Lemery Batangas and Isocyanate as binder. The three Replications per treatment level
was tested using Modulus of Rupture, Nail head Pull Thru, Screw-Holding Strength, Thickness
Swelling, and Water Absorption test for each composition respectively.

Preparation of Materials
Preparation of Materials

Mixing

Pressing

Curing

Testing
Testing

Figure 2. Project Development

EXPERIMENTATION AND TESTING PROCEDURE

Experimentation Procedure
The research gathered wood shavings (Madre Cacao) and Isocynate was the primary
component of a particle board.
a)

Recycled wood shavings as a raw material were collected from furniture shop
in Lemery Batangas.

b) Isocynate will be bought in Carmona, Cavite .

1. Preparation of Materials:
a. The collected recycled wood shavings were sieved to remove dust.
b. Isocyanate is bought in Carmona, Cavite
2. Mixing Method
a. Mix the sieved wood shavings and Isocyanate in a steel or polyester
container.
3. Molding Method
a. Fill the molder with wood shavings and Isocyanate mixture.

4. Pressing of Specimen
Put the mold into a conventional pressing machine, and apply a constant
pressure within 3 hours. After removing the blocks from the forms, let them set until
they are dry enough to handle without falling or breaking apart.

6.

Curing of Specimen
Move the boards to a drying area in the direct sun or under a shed to protect
them from the weather. Vertically stack them and let them completely dry for about 3
days.

7.

Trimming of Boards into Test Pieces

Trim the board into its test pieces. For modulus of rupture cut 3 pcs 30 cm x
30 cm x 12mm board per treatment level, for Face Screw Holding 3 pcs 30 cm x 30
cm board per treatment level and for the thickness swelling and water absorption cut
3 pcs 30 cm x 30 cm board per treatment level.
8.

Testing of Boards

The testing of specimen was done after 10 curing days. The specimen was
subjected to Physical and Mechanical Property tests that are required by the
Philippine National Standard.

Testing Procedures
All Testing procedure were in accordance to the PNS 230:1989 Specification for Particle
Board.
Physical Properties

The Thickness Swelling (TS) and Water Absorption (WA) are the testsconducted to
measure the moisture resistance of the particleboard and determine the moisture content of the
board as a percentage of its dry weight.
The following are the procedures for TS and WA test:
a. Weigh the test specimen to an accuracy of 0.1 g;
b. Measure its thickness to an accuracy of 0.1 mm at four points midway along its side
2.5 cm away from the edge of the test specimen, and use the average in the
computation of thickness swelling;
c. Immerse in water at 28 4 centigrade horizontal to a depth of 3cm beneath the water
surface;
d. After 24 hours, remove the specimen and allow draining vertically for 10 minutes;
e. Wipe off excess with blotting paper or cloth;
f. Weigh the specimen and record its thickness immediately; and
g. Calculate the WA/ TSto the nearest 1.0 %.
Mechanical Properties

The Modulus of Rupture (MOR) is atest conducted that measures the flexural breaking
load (bending strength) of the board.

The following are the procedures for MOR test:

a. Using a standard testing machine with apparatus. Carefully place the specimen in the
Universal Testing Machine below the center of the upper bearing block;
b. Apply a load to the surface of the test specimen at a uniform rate of about 5 cm/min and
determine the maximum load at a span of 10 cm; and
c. Calculate the MOR.

The Face Screw Holding (FSH) is a test conductedon screws threaded into the board to
measure the resistance to withdrawal in a plane normal to the face.

The following are the procedures for FSH test:

a. The specimen shall be at least 2.5 cm thick, otherwise, glue two or more pieces together
to achieve a 2.5 cm minimum thickness;
b. Using a 2.8 mm diameter drill, bore lead holes into the test specimen 17 mm at
midwidth, at least 5 cm from the end of the specimen;
c. Tread 25 cm no. 10 wood screw into the specimen;
d. Perform the test immediately after the screw has been embedded;
e. Attached the specimen holding fixture to the lower plate of the testing machine;
f. Insert the specimen in the fixture with the head of the screws up;

g. Engage the head of the screws by the load applying fixture with a slot for easy
attachment;
h. Attach this loading fixture to the upper plate of the testing machine;
i. Apply load to the specimen throughout the test by a uniform motion of the movable
head of the testing machine at a rate of 1.5 mm /min; and
j. Calculate the FSH
Evaluation Procedure
The Technological University of the Philippines Evaluation Instrument for Developed
Prototypewas used to determine the acceptability of CBBs withthe followingcriteria: Aesthetics,
Workability, Durability, Economy, Safety and Saleability.
The following is the list of steps undertaken:
1. Evaluation forms were distributed to five (5) Project Managers, five (5) Building
Construction material suppliers, five (5) Skilled Workers;
2. After explaining the details, the respondents rated the product for the above mentioned
criteria based on the Likert Scales as shown in Table 3. One (1) being the lowest (Poor)
and five (5) being the highest (Highly Acceptable);
3. Evaluation results were tabulated to compute for the mean of each criterion and the over
all mean respectively;
4. The results were interpreted using the scale shown in table 4.