Physical properties of high density fibreboard made from hydrothermally treated kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) fibres

This study was done to evaluate the effect of the hydrothermal treatment on kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) fibres high density fibreboard (HDF) at elevated temperatures. Four types of HDF were manufactured, one was untreated and the others were treated at three different temperatures that were 100, 130 and 150 °C for 30 minutes in a laboratory autoclave. The thickness swelling of panel when immersed in water decreased with increased of temperature. When the hydrophobicity of panels were increased, the adhesion and penetration of phenol formaldehyde are also decreased. All type of panel manufactured according to the requirement of EN BS 317 standards. HDF panels made from hydrothermally treated kenaf fibres treated at 150°C can be used for interior application or in areas where it will not be exposed directly to moisture.