INVESTIGATION OF THERMAL AND FIRE RESISTANCE, HYGROSCOPIC, PHYSICAL, AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF EXPANDED VERMICULITE USED IN MEDIUM-DENSITY FIBERBOARDS

Authors : Seda Nur Demirel, Fatih Mengeloğlu

Pages : 12-21

View : 97 | Download : 142

Publication Date : 2025-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :In this study, the flammability behaviour of medium-density fibreboard (MDF) incorporating expanded vermiculite, a well-known fire-resistant material, was evaluated using limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimetry, formaldehyde emission, and perforator measurements. In addition, the influence of vermiculite on the water-related properties of MDF was investigated, owing to its nature as a magnesium aluminosilicate clay mineral. The MDF panels were bonded with a melamine–urea–formaldehyde (MUF) adhesive, and their physical and mechanical properties were also characterised. The LOI results indicated a progressive improvement in oxygen index values with increasing vermiculite-to-fibre (V/F) ratio. Cone calorimeter tests showed an increase in time to ignition and a reduction in heat release rate (HRR), confirming the positive effect of vermiculite on fire performance. Despite the use of MUF resin, the panels exhibited relatively high formaldehyde emission levels. Furthermore, increasing V/F content led to improved thickness swelling and water absorption behaviour, which is attributed to the presence of expanded vermiculite as a magnesium aluminosilicate clay mineral within the MDF structure.
Keywords : Genişletilmiş vermikülit, , Alev geciktirici, Ateşe dayanıklı, Swelling and water absorption

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