Evaluation of various properties of gypsum particleboards reinforced with olivine mineral

In this study, it was investigated some properties of gypsum particleboards which is produced with olivine mineral. Wood particles were added as reinforcement in different proportions (70% and 30%) to two types of plasterboard. The effects of inorganic olivine mineral added to these two types of boards were evaluated in terms of their physical and mechanical properties, thermal conductivity, and combustion behaviour. Subsequently, tests were carried to determine their water absorption, thickness swelling, internal bonding, bending strength, modulus of elasticity, thermal conductivity, and combustion performance. The properties of the boards were then examined using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The Fourier-transform infrared analysis revealed the typical traces of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin in the wood material, traces of gypsum as the binder, and varying traces of olivine, according to the additive ratio, were also observed. Thermal analysis determined the positive contribution of olivine to the basic stability of both types of boards. It can be concluded that olivine, when added in different proportions, is a suitable reinforcement material for improving the technical properties of gypsum particleboard.