Sub-Project 2: Separation of Multi-Material Systems and Development of a Recycling Process for Wood Particle and Wood Fibre-Based Materials

Sub-Project 2: Separation of Multi-Material Systems and Development of a Recycling Process for Wood Particle and Wood Fibre-Based Materials

Wood particle and wood fibre-based materials are among the most important wood-based materials due to their mechanical properties and dimensional stability (low swelling and shrinkage). A further advantage is their efficient use of resources, as their production allows materials such as sawmill residues, defective timber and waste wood to be utilised, even though these are unsuitable for new solid-wood products. However, a drawback is that, apart from thermal recovery, there have so far been virtually no viable options for the further use of wood particle and wood fibre-based materials that are no longer required or have been damaged.

This is where the ‘ReSpan’ research project comes in. Its aim is to develop a recycling process for wood-based materials, particularly MDF, OSB, flat-pressed particleboard and pallet blocks. The aim is not only to reuse parts of these materials, but to enable as many of their components as possible to be put to further use.

Project leader:

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Alexander Pfriem