The article presents the results of research on the influence of selected technological parameters, changed within a range similar to values presently used in industry, on the properties of three-layer particleboards produced from pine particlesobtained from sawmill waste. The particles were glued with amine resins. The panels, produced using urea-formaldehyde resin modified with melamine, were characterisedby the lowest content of formaldehyde, i.e. below 2 mg/100 g of ovendry board, after conversion into a value corresponding to the moisture content of the panels equalling 6.5%. The emissions of formaldehyde determined by the chamber and gas analysis methods were much lower than the threshold values recommended in international regulations and used as a basis for the classification of particleboards.
The article contains the results of tests for formaldehyde content in selected wood species, alternative raw materials from experimental and agricultural plantations, particles dried under industrial conditions, recycled chips, and in boards made of elements of furniture, at the end of its life cycle. An unexpectedly high content of formaldehyde was determined in particleboards produced a few dozen years ago. It was observed that the amount of formaldehyde in particles dried under industrial conditions may have a bearing on the content of this compound in finished products and/or its emission into the environment. Control tests of raw materials may be performed using the flask method.