Optimizing plywood applications using cold pressing systems based on wood species-adhesive combinations distributed in Korea: A statistical approach

This study aimed to support small-scale plywood manufacturers by evaluating the viability of cold-press systems that do not require large-scale heating equipment. We compared plywood properties from two species (Korean red pine and Siberian larch) and three adhesives (hot-press MUF; cold-press PRF, EVA). The measured physical properties were density, moisture content, and water absorption, and the mechanical properties were modulus of rupture, static and dynamic moduli of elasticity, and tensile shear strength. Correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and k-means clustering were employed to interpret the relationships among variables and classify the performance patterns. The results showed that PRF achieved high structural performance without requiring thermal input, making it suitable for structural-grade applications. On the other hand, EVA showed a lower strength but still has potential for non-structural and interior uses. Furthermore, the cluster analysis, which established a performance-based classification, provides a practical guideline for material selection, particularly suitable for small-scale or decentralized production environments seeking to operate using simpler, non-thermal processes.