Effect of Epoxy Resin Reinforcement on Screw Withdrawal Strength of Fiberboard and Particleboard Used in the Furniture Industry

Abstract

The study aimed to increase the screw withdrawal strength (SWS) of Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) and Particleboard (PB) used in furniture strength by using epoxy resin in the screw pilot hole. Therefore, the effects of pilot hole diameters, screw diameter, and amount of epoxy resin on SWS of MDF and PB from face and edge were investigated. According to BS EN 13446, a dimension of 50 x 50 mm specimens was cut from commercial MDF and PB boards. A static load was applied parallel to the screw direction. The SWS of MDF was higher than the SWS of PB because of its density. Besides, the SWS of MDF and PB samples with a 3.5 mm screw diameter were higher compared to those with a 4.5 mm screw diameter. A decrease in pilot hole diameter and an increase in the amount of epoxy resin provided higher SWS of materials. Using 20% epoxy resin of the volume of the pilot hole resulted in two times better SWS values. The study showed that a higher amount of epoxy resin, smaller pilot hole diameter, and smaller screw diameter contribute to better SWS of both MDF and PB from the face and edge.