Unsaturated polyester
resin (UPR) with good chemical resistance,
excellent mechanical properties, and formaldehyde-free shows great
potentials in the wood industry. In this study, the mechanical strength,
thermostability, dynamic thermomechanical property, and interfacial
bonding of bamboo particle boards (BPBs) made from UPR adhesives with
toluene diisocyanate (TDI) as the coupling agent were explored. The
results showed that covalent bonds were formed among TDI, bamboo particles,
and UPR, which could significantly enhance the mechanical strength.
The internal bonding strength, modulus of elasticity, and modulus
of rupture of treated BPBs were 1.36, 3010, and 19.6 MPa with the
increment of 1250, 514, and 833%, respectively, compared to the control
samples. Also, the thickness swelling rate of the BPB was 4.6%, much
lower than that of the control, with a decrease of 92%. The thermostability
of the treated BPB was also improved. As a result, the BPB using UPR
as the adhesive and TDI as the coupling agent shows better usability,
higher efficiency, and excellent mechanical strength.