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Effects of adhesive z-connections on the properties of a model wood composite

University of British Columbia

Adhesive is a costly and critical component of wood composites. The relationship between adhesive distribution and properties of wood composites has been explored, but few studies have attempted to alter the distribution of adhesive in wood composites as a way of improving their properties. In this thesis, I hypothesize that creating a 3-dimensionally inter-connected adhesive network by introducing adhesive Z-connections will improve two key properties of wood composites (thickness swelling and fracture toughness). Both experiments and computer simulation (finite element analysis) were carried out to test this hypothesis. I developed a methodology to precisely perforate veneer to facilitate the creation of adhesive Z-connections when the composite was pressed. Adhesive Z-connections are defined as the cured adhesive distributed in the Z- (thickness) direction (in addition to the X-Y directions) of the laminated wood composite due to the perforation in veneer. I examined factors affecting the ability of Z-connections to improve dimensional stability and fracture toughness of a model wood composite. I visualized the adhesive distribution in the composite in 2D and 3D using macro-photography, X-ray micro-computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy. Significant improvements in dimensional stability and fracture toughness of some of the composites were observed. Key parameters affecting the ability of adhesive Z-connections to reduce thickness swelling were diameter and spatial arrangement of Z-connections, adhesive level and wood species used to make the composite. Key parameters affecting the ability of adhesive to increase the fracture toughness of a model wood composite were area-density of Z-connections and reinforcement of the adhesive in the composite. I conclude that introducing adhesive Z-connections can reduce thickness swelling and enhance fracture toughness of wood composites, but the effectiveness of such an approach is affected by wood species, area-density and spatial arrangement of the Z-connections. I discuss the implications of my findings for the development of wood composites with enhanced dimensional stability and fracture toughness and further research needed to capitalize on the concept of creating an inter-connected 3D adhesive network in wood composites by introducing adhesive Z-connections.

Text

2017-04-20

Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International

http://hdl.handle.net/2429/61308

Forestry

University of British Columbia

UBCV

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/