Characterization of Sawdust Wastes as Precursor for Particleboard Production using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction

Abstract

The extraction and disposal of wood chips, shavings from sawmills, or fine sawdust in developing countries with no established or sustainable methods is an increasing problem, frequently posing environmental challenges. Several furniture-making phases, from cutting to processing to polishing, produces a significant volume of sawdust of differing grades. Sawdust is still regarded as one of the most underused wood waste portions, thus, causing ecological concerns. This study uses NREL Standard Techniques, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) to investigate the potentiality of sawdust as a sustainable precursor for particleboards. NREL Standard Technique is used to determine the chemical composition, FTIR spectroscopy analysis delved into the chemical and molecular structure and X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed cellulose content and crystallinity. The main chemical components found are cellulose (53.87%), lignin (24.78%), hemicellulose (19.78%), ash (1.5%) and extractives (0.87%). Distinct peaks are seen at 2200 cm-1, 2000 cm-1, 1700 cm-1, 1300 cm-1, and 800 cm-1 in the FTIR spectrum of the sawdust. Cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin have functional groups that line up with these peak values. The XRD analysis of the sawdust specimen demonstrated the presence of two significant peaks at diffraction angles (2θ°) of 15.6° and 22.4°, which correspond to the (101) and (002) lattice planes of cellulose I. The sharp and intense nature of these peaks suggest the high crystallinity of cellulose in the sample. Higher crystallinity levels can lead to improved particleboard strength and durability. The study establishes that sawdust, which is often a nuisance at sawmills, can be put into more beneficial use, as it has adequate compositions for quality properties necessary for particleboard manufacture.