Evaluation of Smoke Density on Combustion of Wood Based Panel Products

Smoke density of wood based panel materials like General purpose plywood, Marine Plywood(BWP grade), Medium Density Fibre Board (MDF), Bamboo Mat Board (BMB), Pre-laminated Particle Board (PPB) were measured using chamber method (ASTM D 2843-70). The specimens are tested inside closed chamber and readings of light transmission were taken at 5-seconds interval. Measurements were made in terms of loss of light transmittance through an accumulated volume of smoke. It was observed that pre-laminated particle board and general purpose plywood with 22.20% &22.47% of smoke accumulation area respectively resulted lower values as compared to other panel products such as marine plywood (BWP grade), MDF, BMB etc. A uniform rate of smoke build-up was recorded. This study provides the basis for predicting the smoke production rate, time to ignite (TTI), and Toxicity index which can be developed by combustion of the wood product.