Renewable Tannin-Based Adhesive from Quebracho Extract and Furfural for Particleboards

With increasing concerns about the production of sustainable materials, the field of wood-based materials still offers a critical challenge. Indeed, a close dependence on petroleum derivatives is still required, involving high consumption of non-renewable and toxic chemicals in the assembly of wooden parts. Herein, the aim of this research was to evaluate the potentiality of an entirely renewable tannin-based adhesive for particleboard production. Industrial quebracho (Schinopsis balansae) tannin powder was selected as a raw material and analyzed in terms of polyphenols, polysaccharides, and the total condensed amount. Furfural was proposed as a bio-sourced hardener to establish crosslinking between the flavonoid units and hence produce a resin. This formulation was analyzed in terms of viscosity and curing time and then applied to laboratory-scale single-layer particleboard production. The density, mechanical properties, and thickness swelling of the panels were investigated at different glue ratios and pressing conditions. It was observed that time has a higher impact than temperature on the internal bond, and panels pressed at 160 °C for a longer pressing time (>7 min) performed better than the boards obtained at a higher temperature. The registered values at 160 °C for 11 min of pressing of internal bond (0.37 MPa) and modulus of elasticity (1417 MPa) met the required standards for P1 panels according to European norms EN 312 (2010). Conversely, the modulus of rupture (4.9 MPa) did not satisfy the requirements suggesting the need for the use of additive or post-treatments. Considering the results achieved, quebracho–furfural adhesives are an interesting base for bio-based adhesive formulations.