The possibility of using zeolite as a retarder of particleboard obtained from sugarcane pulp

This study aims to use zeolite as a retarder of particleboards from sugarcane pulp (bagasse). In this study, mechanical properties, physical properties, fire resistance and CIE L * a * b * colorimetric test were investigated. The results of this study showed that the use of zeolite led to an increase in flexural strength, modulus of elasticity and impact resistance of the resulting particleboards. However, the internal adhesion of the resulting particleboard decreased. In addition, the use of zeolite as a flame retardant increased fire resistance. The results of physical properties also showed that zeolite reduced water absorption and thickness swelling in 2 hours of immersion. While water uptake and thickness swelling increased during 24 hours of immersion. The results showed that zeolite caused color change with increasing Δl and finally increased the whiteness and brightness of the surface of the samples. Zeolite reduced the combustion parameters, reduced the mass due to burn and the amount of carbonized surface and significantly increased the ignition time while drastically reduces flame retention and weight loss. In general, according to the measured parameters, the addition of zeolite can be considered as a slowing treatment.