TOF-SIMS Molecular Imaging and Properties of pMDI-Bonded Particleboards Made from Cup-Plant and Wood

Cup-plant (Silphium perfoliatum L.) stalks were investigated as a potential wood-replacement in particleboards (PBs). Two types of PBs produced—(1) single-layer and (2) three-layer boards. In the cup-plant PB, core layer was made from cup-plant, while surface consisted spruce particles. The well control panels produced with polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI) adhesive, physical mechanical properties measured to meet class P1 European EN 312 standard. For intrinsic morphology particleboards, scanning electron microscopy applied. Wood-based cup-plant-based indicated significant differences that affect resulting particleboards. Furthermore, an innovative approach used determination pMDI bondline morphology. With compact Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass analyser, integrated multifunctional focused-ion beam scanning-electron-microscope, it possible show Ga+ ion source could be detect visualize 3D molecular clusters specific adhesive wood. Mechanical performance data showed performed well, even though their below spruce-made controls. Especially modulus rupture (MOR) PB lowered by 40%, compared board. Likewise, thickness swelling boards higher than control. Results linked porous structure material. contrast, shown had MOR also elasticity, along lower swelling, its counterpart. industry relevant finding fulfilled standard, (usage dry conditions). It raw material mixtures useful improve panel performance, altered vertical density profile.