Sustainable reuse of expanded polystyrene waste in <i>Ochroma pyramidale</i> particle boards

Considering the high production of fossil-based waste, such as expanded polystyrene, this study aimed at producing medium-density particle boards (MDP) of Ochroma pyramidale (balsa) with the incorporation of expanded polystyrene (EPS) granules. For this, balsa wood particles, EPS granules (0%, 1%, 3%, and 5%), and urea-formaldehyde resin were used in the formulation. The physical and mechanical properties of the panels were tested according to the Brazilian standard. The addition of EPS provided improvement in the thickness swelling and internal bond properties. The results showed a strong potential to produce particle boards with 5% EPS, leading to a 39% reduction in thickness swelling compared to the control. These panels met the standard's requirements for most properties, except for the modulus of elasticity (MOE), being classified as type P2 panels (non-structural for use in indoor environments).