Overlay Problems with OSB Core, 1996 Plastic Laminates Symposium Proceedings

OSB capacity in North America will soon exceed demand and new markets will be necessary. One possible value-added opportunity for OSB is the laminated or overlay market. The main drawbacks that prevent OSB from capturing markets, other than sheathing, are variable surface quality and dimensional instability. Several approaches to improve the surface properties of OSB were studied. A stylus measuring system was employed to monitor surface smoothness improvements. The panels were laminated using a white, high gloss melamine overlay or vinyl and evaluated after accelerated aging for surface smoothness, cut edge integrity and panel warp. In general, increasing the panel density, using thin strands, fines or coatings had beneficial effects on panel smoothness and the reduction of surface voids. A new surfacing approach which includes a pre-pressing operation showed potential. With melamine overlay, the best surface performance was obtained when fine wood particles were applied on OSB panels. Preliminary results suggest that filled OSB panels made of thin strands could be used for vinyl lamination.