Abstract
Feed produced from Arabian date palm (Phoenix dectylifera-L) biomass and impregnated with urea formaldehyde (UF) adhesive binder is subjected to hot compaction to yield particleboard panels of excellent bending strength. Process variables such as press temperature, press cycle time, compaction pressure and particle thickness are shown to exercise significant effects on the bending strength of the final product. The influence of chipping technique on particle integrity and surface quality is highlighted. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) evidence is presented to illustrate microstructural damages caused by excessively high compaction pressure.