3. Applications

3.1 Gluing laminated veneer wood (LVL) and plywood

The results of the chemical analysis had a direct impact on the applications of citric acid for wood gluing. Bonding large flat wood surfaces (such as veneers) to produce plywood and LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) panels gave excellent strength results, even though the pressing temperature conditions (180°C) were suitable for LVL (180°C), but higher than usual for plywood (110°C to 150°C). Thus, the bonding results showed that citric acid has great potential for use as a bio-binder for wood veneers, without any other additives.