Physical-mechanical performance and heat transfer analysis of OSB with ZnO nanoparticles

The use of nanotechnology has been growing in the last decade due to its different properties when compared to macro-scale material. In the wood composites area, nanoparticles are used in order to reduce its hygroscopicity and improve its protection against decay. The aim of this work was to evaluate the physical-mechanical performance and heat transfer inside OSB (Oriented Strand Board) produced with pine wood and castor oil (Ricinus communis L.) polyurethane adhesive with addition of zinc oxide nanoparticles in two different percentages (0.25 and 0.50%) and compare them with the control treatment). The tests performed were density, moisture content, swelling in thickness, static bending and screw withdraw, according to European standards. At the end of the tests, a statistical analysis was performed, through the ANOVA test, with a 5% significance level to verify whether there was difference between the means. The properties of the studied panels were not influenced by the addition of nanoparticles, due the small amount of nanoparticles added. In heat transfer, the panels without the addition of nanoparticles reached a higher temperature compared to treatments with nanomaterial, however, none reached the desired temperature of 100°C. The panels produced attended the class 1 of OSB panels, except in swelling in thickness.