ABSTRACT
The present study aimed to evaluate the potential use of Brazil nut residue in the manufacture of particleboards using castor oil polyurethane adhesive. The experimental factor investigated consisted of resin content and particle size, leading to a factorial design of 22+1. The quality of the panels was evaluated based on determination of water absorption (WA), thickness swelling (TS) and screw withdrawal resistance, according to the Brazilian ABNT NBR 14810:2 (2002) standard, additionally, a Janka hardness and ash content tests were performed. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of Brazil nut residue has potential in the production of particleboards, and that the addition of castor oil polyurethane resin proved effective as a binder adhesive, indicating that higher percentages of the resin tend to cause low water absorption and dimensional changes in the panels, as well as higher strength values.
Keywords:
Paticleboards; lignocellulosic residues; natural polyurethane
