Sustainable Particleboards from Invasive Cogon Grass using Epoxy Resin: A Greener Alternative to Wood-Based Panels

Abstract

This study explores cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica), an invasive species, as a sustainable raw material for particleboard production. Epoxy resin was used as a binder, with methanol added to enhance processing and mechanical performance. The effects of particle size (<60 mesh and >60 mesh), five methanol concentrations (1.5%–3.5%), and binder-to-particle ratios (1.4:1 to 2.2:1) were evaluated. Boards were pressed at 25°C for 15 minutes. Physical and mechanical properties were analyzed, including density, moisture content, thickness swelling, tensile strength, yield strength, and modulus of elasticity derived from tensile testing. Results showed densities ranging from 0.568 to 0.942 g/cm3, moisture content below 6.6%, and zero thickness swelling after 24-hour immersion. The best mechanical results reached 11.96 MPa for tensile strength and 125.82 MPa for yield strength, with a maximum modulus of elasticity of 190.09 MPa. While MOE values were derived from tensile testing and not flexural analysis as required by SNI 03-2105-2006, results indicate cogon grass particleboards are promising for indoor use.

Keywords

• Adhesive/particle ratio
• Alang-alang
• Cogon Grass
• Epoxy Resin
• Particleboard

Thanks

We are grateful to the technical staffs at the Process Technology Laboratory for their assistance with the experimental setup and data collection. Special thanks to Kausar and Fezi Risky Husein for unwavering support and meticulous attention to detail during the testing phases.

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