Effectiveness of tobacco stalks in particleboard using epoxy resin as binder/ Najer G. Abdulkarim, Mark Jhon H. Ballentos, Christian Antoni M. Flores, Nathaniel D. Labiano, and Ella Marie D. Orillos .--

Thesis (undergraduate)

College of Industrial Technology.-- Bachelor of Engineering Technology major in Construction Technology: Technological University of the Philippines, 2024.

Includes bibliography:

The effectiveness of agricultural residues as potential raw materials for particle board
production has gained considerable attention in recent years. Thisresearch investigates the
feasibility of using tobacco stalks as a sustainable and cost-effective resource in the
manufacturing of particle boards. The primary focus of this study is to determine the
effectiveness of tobacco stalks as a reinforcement material in particle boards, employing
Epoxy Resin as the binder. The researchers acquired the raw materials and produced the
tobacco stalks particleboard, with the manufacturing process taking place at the
Technological University of the Philippines in Manila, the raw materials such as epoxy
resin are acquired in J. Spencer Technologies Philippines Corporation located at 116
Kapiligan Street, Brgy. Doña Imelda, Quezon City, Philippines, and the tobacco stalks
being obtained from the National Tobacco Administration. To achieve this objective, five
different mix designs were explored, with varying proportions of tobacco stalks and Epoxy
Resin: 50:50, 55:45, 60:40, 65:35, and 70:30. Each mix design was replicated three times
to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the results. The resulting particle boards had
standardized dimensions of 300mm x 300mm x 12mm, with a target density of 0.80g/cc.
The research methodology adhered to the testing standards defined in PNS 230:1989 and
ISO 16893:2017, encompassing both physical and mechanical properties. For physical
properties, the thickness swelling test and water absorption test were conducted to assess
the board's resistance to moisture-induced damage. Meanwhile, mechanical properties
were evaluated using the modulus of rupture test (MOR) to determine the board's bending
strength, the internal bond test (IB) to assess adhesive bonding, and the face screw holding
test (FSH) to gauge the board's resistance to screw withdrawal. The results of this study

will provide valuable insights into the potential of tobacco stalks as a sustainable and cost-
effective resource for particle board production. These findings will contribute to the

sustainable development of the wood composite industry and support the effectiveness of
agricultural residues in creating eco-friendly construction materials. Additionally, the
study is a benchmark for future research and industry adoption of tobacco stalks as a raw
material in particle board production.