Potential utilization of nettle (Urtica dioica L.) shives as a raw material for particleboards

<ns3:p>Potential utilization of nettle (Urtica dioica L.) shives as a raw material for particleboards. The aim of the research was to confirm the possibility of using woody particles with sorted-out fibres of nettle Urtica dioica stems as alternative raw materials in the production of particleboards. As part of the work, particleboards made out of nettle Urtica dioica particles were produced in laboratory conditions and selected psychical and mechanical properties of the obtained boards were tested. The results show, that it is not possible to manufacture particleboards for the furniture industry using particles of nettle without fibres (Urtica dioica L.) meeting the requirements for P2 boards according to EN 312 (2010). Sorting out the fibres from the raw material provided more consistent panel’ properties.</ns3:p>