Investigation of the usability of apple tree pruning chips as an alternative raw material to produce cement bonded particleboard

The utilization of apple tree pruning as an alternative raw material to produce cement-bonded particleboard was investigated. Experimental cement-bonded particleboards measuring 500×500×12 mm with a nominal density of 1400 kg/m3 were prepared in laboratory conditions using different ratios (100/0,75/25,50/50,25/75,0/100) of apple tree pruning chips mixed Red Pine wood chips. The following basic properties required by the TS EN 312 standards were evaluated; water absorption, thickness swelling, bending properties, and screw withdrawal strength. Results of the study indicate that the addition of apple pruning in the mix of cement-bonded particleboard significantly influences the properties tested. Mechanical properties of the tested boards decreased while absorption and thickness swelling values of the cement-bonded particleboard were increased as the portion of apple pruning in the mixture was increased. Experimental boards which include apple tree pruning up to 25 % still meet properties required by the standards for general purpose-use cement-bonded particleboards. Apple tree pruning chips may be an alternative raw material for the manufacturing of cement-bonded particleboard.