Comparison of Mechanical Properties of Non-Load-Bearing Panels in Walls

The mechanical barrier function of non-load-bearing panels or partitions is analysed as a basis for a comparison of panels. A certain mechanical solidity and rigidity, expressed as bending stiffness, is considered to be the most important property, followed by a measure of impact resistance. The internal bond, the Z-strength, is also considered to be important, but rather with respect to the assembling of panels. Other strength properties, for which data are given, are the tensile and bending strength, the moduli of elasticity and screw hold in the face and in the edge of the board. The comparison includes wood-based panels, mineral-based boards and foamed plastics, and has – where possible – been made over a range of product densities. Data have been obtained from laboratory tests as well as from data sheets and from the literature. Plywood has better mechanical properties than other wood-based materials such as fiber building board and particle board, compared at the same density. The strength properties of foamed plastics are generally higher than those of wood-based materials of equal density, but the modulus of elasticity in bending is much lower. Gypsum board has almost the same modulus of elasticity in bending and the same internal bond as wet process fiber building board, but the impact resistance and other strength properties are lower. Asbestos cement board has good strength but a high density, which makes it heavy to handle.

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