The Characteristics of Thermally Treated MDF Panels

Abstract

The paper aims to study the characteristics of medium-density fiberboards (MDF), resulted upon a thermal treatment at temperatures of 180°C and 200°C, during 3 and 5 hours. These characteristics are compared to those of untreated, duplicate samples. Research method and material elements are succinctly presented in order to determine the water absorption and thickness swelling, but also the bending strength and Brinell hardness, as well as the materials and equipment being used. The results of the research emphasize that thermally treated panels present a lower level of water absorption and thickness swelling, but along these advantages we also have certain disadvantages, such as the decrease of the static bending strength and of the Brinell hardness. In general, the thermal treatment brings undisputable benefits to the MDF panels when they are used within highly humid environments.