Raw natural rubber latex-based bio-adhesive for the production of particleboard: formulation and optimization of process parameters

In this study, bio-adhesives from natural rubber latex (NRL) were combined with starch and formic acid to fabricate jute stick-based particleboards (JSPs). Different blends of NRL, starch, and formic acid, i.e., 6 : 1 : 1, 2 : 1 : 1, and 2 : 3 : 3, were used to produce particleboards using a pressing temperature of 180 °C and applied pressure of 5 MPa using a 5 min pressing time. The particleboards were tested for physical, mechanical, and thermal properties according to ANSI standards. Based on initial screening, the best formula (NRL/starch/formic acid of 2 : 3 : 3) was used to optimize the temperature and pressing time for the highest board performance. The highest density, tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and modulus of rupture were 830 g cm(−3), 10.51, 2380, and 20.05 N mm(−2), respectively. Thermo-gravimetric analysis indicated that thermal decomposition of samples primarily occurred in a temperature range of 265 to 399 °C, indicating good thermal performance. The measured physical and mechanical properties of the produced JSPs fulfilled the production standards. However, fulfilling the water absorption and thickness swelling criteria was a challenge. The results indicate that NRL is a promising alternative binder when blended with starch and formic acid.