Manufacture and performance of full size structural flakeboards from Douglas-fir forest residues

Abstract

The Forest Products Laboratory manufactured and assessed the performance of 4- by 8-foot structural flakeboard panels from Douglas-fir forest residues after target performance goals were developed. The 42 pcf, three- layer boards were 1/2 inch thick with high quality disk cut flakes for the faces and lower quality flakes processed through a ring flaker in the core. More than 200 panels were produced. Basic mechanical and physical properties were evaluated, as well as durability and performance under concentrated and impact loading, racking strength of wall and floor sections, and fire exposures. Bending strength and stiffness were both below the target goals. Most other goals were met; including those for shear and nailholding properties, internal bond, and hardness. Panels used as wall sheathing exceeded specified acceptance standards for full-size walls. Under concentrated load, panels met maximum load and deflection recommendations of the Uniform Building Code for roofs and floors. Under fire exposure, the panels had a class B flame spread rating and exceeded the fire endurance requirement for exterior walls of one- and two-family dwellings.

Citation

McNatt, J. Dobbin. 1978. Manufacture and performance of full size structural flakeboards from Douglas-fir forest residues. Structural flakeboard from forest residues : proceedings of a symposium presented by the USDA Forest Service, June 6-8, 1978, Kansas City, Mo. Washington, DC : U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, 1978. Gen. Tech. Rep. WO-5: Pages 118-132