Development and characterization of a bio-based lignosulfonate flame-retardant system for medium-density fiberboard: a comparative study with traditional formulations
WOOD MATERIAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1080/17480272.2026.2715714
- Journal Name: WOOD MATERIAL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Applied Science & Technology Source, CAB Abstracts, Compendex, Natural Science Collection (ProQuest), Engineering Source (EBSCO), Materials Science & Engineering Collection (ProQuest), Technology Collection (ProQuest)
- Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Developing sustainable, high-performance fire retardants for wood-based composites remains a critical challenge. This study investigated the synergistic influence of bio-based lignosulfonate combined with melamine, diammonium phosphate, and sodium hexametaphosphate on the fire-retardant and physico-mechanical properties of medium-density fiberboard. While untreated panels exhibited rapid ignition (69 s) and significant weight loss (6.8%), the incorporation of a 10 wt% lignosulfonate/10 wt% sodium hexametaphosphate system reduced weight loss by 46.6% and improved char integrity. Melamine-based formulations demonstrated superior intumescent behavior, effectively delaying ignition for more than 120 s. Structural analysis by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed enhanced crosslinking density in phosphate-modified systems, while differential scanning calorimetry thermograms revealed a unique two-step curing mechanism for sodium hexametaphosphate-modified resins. Although the addition of fire-retardant additives resulted in a slight decline in mechanical strength (up to 9.5%), all panels satisfied the minimum performance requirements specified in EN 622-5 for medium-density fiberboard. Notably, the lignosulfonate-melamine system significantly enhanced dimensional stability (23% improvement in thickness swelling) and reduced formaldehyde emissions to E1 levels. These findings demonstrate that lignosulfonate-based hybrid systems offer a viable, eco-friendly pathway for producing fire-resistant medium-density fiberboard that meets stringent industrial standards.