Experimental research

Includes bibliographical references

Due to rapid accumulation of agro-residues particularly sugarcane bagasse and rice straw, developing their conversion into eco-friendly substitute material for timber is indeed desirable. The aim of this study is therefore to analyze the physical and mechanical properties of particleboard, made from sugarcane bagasse, rice straw and epoxy resin, prepared at three proportion Mix1 (50:30:20), Mix2 (40:40:20) and Mix3 (30:50:20). Particleboards with 40cm x 40cm x 1.2cm dimension were tested at the DOST-FPRDI facility, outlined under test standard of PNS ISO 16893:2017 and ASTM Standards. All mix formulations successfully satisfied both PNS and ASTM physical standards for moisture content (6.03%-6.73%), relative density (0.640.66g/cm^3), and thickness swelling (11.04%-12.45%). Whereas, water absorption rates ranged from 70.79% to 85.88%, failing to meet the maximum limits set by PNS (≤30%) and ASTM (<40%) due to the very small particle sizes of raw agricultural fibers producing considerable void spaces within. For the mechanical properties of composite boards, it varies with the proportions of materials, Modulus of Rupture (MOR) values ranged from (8.71 MPa) to (12.15 MPa). exceeding the PNS Type 100 flexural minimum, though falling below the ASTM D1037 requirement. For Face Screw Holding (FSH), Mix 1 recorded the lowest value (25.98 kg), failing both PNS and ASTM standards due to its higher percentage sugarcane contributing to the greater absorption of binder resin by the high porosity of sugarcane and weaker inter particle bonding ability absorbing binder resin and limiting inter particle adhesion. Increasing the rice straw proportion in Mix 2 (35.91 kg) and Mix 3 (35.95 kg) significantly improved compaction which successfully passing PNS Type 100 FSH requirements.