ECO-INNOVATION OF BARLEY AND HDPE WASTES: A PROPOSAL OFSUSTAINABLE PARTICLEBOARDS

Barley straw (BS) and recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) are wastes that represent an environmental problem due tothe large quantities that are generated each year and not subject to recycling processes. In this study, both residues were used inthe manufacture of particleboard. The aim of this research was to characterize the mechanical and water resistance propertiesof panels, modifying its particle size (0.425, 0.60 and 1.00 mm), bonded with rHDPE by three content levels (40, 50 and 60%).Also, a center 23 experimental designs and was employed. The evaluated water absorption (WA) and thickness swelling (TS)after 2 and 24 h were measured to determine the dimensional stability of the particleboards. The evaluated mechanical propertieswere the modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE). The results showed that particle size and componentsproportion were significantly influencing both mechanical and physical properties. The WA and TS decrease proportionally asthe particle size and the content of rHDPE increase. The MOR and MOE are negatively affected by an increase in the content ofrHDPE and the particle size. Wastes that BS and rHDPE can be used to manufacture value-added particleboards that meet qualitystandards