Structural Flakeboard from Short-Rotation, Intensively Cultured Hybrid Populus Clones

Raw material from 4- to 6-year-old hybrid popular, grown under short-rotation, intensive culture (SRIC), was used to fabricate structural flakeboards. The physical and mechanical properties of these flakeboards were studied for the effects of such raw material variables as clone type, age, growth rate, and plant spacing. Processing variables included chipping methods and several bark, twig, bud, and fines compositions. Both homogeneous and three-layer board configurations differing in flake geometry and orientation were manufactured using several resin contents and types. Anatomical and physical characteristics of the raw materials were used to explain differences in the physical and mechanical properties of the boards. These data indicate that Populus raw material from SRIC has potential for fabrication os structural flakeboard. Bending stiffness (MOE) values above 450 kpsi (3,103 MPa) and bending strengths (MOR) above 4,000 psi (27.6 MPa) were attained with 6-year-old material, using a random flake configuration in a homogeneous board. Alignment to maximum values of 950 kpsi (6,650 MPa) and 6,900 psi (47.6 MPa), respectively. Data indicate that differences in the raw materials due to clone and cultural practices can affect board quality.

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