UiTM PROFESSORIAL LECTURE: DEVELOPMENT OF KENAF ORIENTED STRAND BOARD (OSB) AND COMMERCIAL TRIAL

This book presents the outcomes of a pioneering national research project on the Development of Kenaf Oriented Strand Board (OSB) and Commercial Trial - a collaboration between the National Kenaf and Tobacco Board (LKTN) and Universiti Teknologi MARA Pahang (UiTMCPH) under the National Research Grant 2023. It explores the use of Hibiscus cannabinus (kenaf) as an alternative raw material for wood composite, emphasizing sustainable industrial development. This book provides an in-depth examination of kenaf's anatomical, chemical, and mechanical characteristics, emphasizing the optimization of resin content and strand ratios, as well as the refinement of pilot-scale production parameters. It further includes thermogravimetric analysis, bonding evaluation and market acceptance studies to assess commercial viability. Supported by contributions from FRIM, MTIB, IKM, UMK and the Tokyo University of Agriculture, this work establishes kenaf OSB as a competitive, eco-friendly alternative to conventional timber while advancing Malaysia's wood-based economy and sustainable materials research.