Effect of buffers on gypsum particleboard properties

The paper recounts how buffers affect the physical and mechanical properties of gypsum particleboard (GPB) and the initial curing time (IC) of gypsum. The acidic buffers were better than alkaline buffers for prolonging the IC of gypsum and affecting the properties of GPB. Weak acids were advantageous for curing gypsum. When suitable amounts of citric acid and trisodium citrate were added, high performances could be achieved and the IC of gypsum could be prolonged to about 2h. When alkaline buffers such as sodium carbonate were added, the 1C of gypsum was still short but the internal bond strength (IB), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and modulus of rupture (MOR) of GPB were obviously decreased. Citric acid was the best among the four buffers used; and the GPB had a good IB, MOE, MOR, and adequate IC when citric acid of 0.1% was added. Sodium carbonate was not suitable owing to low performance and short IC. Gypsum curing is an endothermic reaction.Part of this paper was presented at the 11th Annual Meeting of the Chugoko Skikoku Branch of the Japan Wood Research Society, Matsue, September 1999