The dimensional stability of oriented strand board (OSB) can be affected by processing variables. This study investigated the water absorption and thickness swelling of OSB based on its board layup, type of resin, resin content, and percentage of wax. The experiment data was measured inside an environmental chamber from oven dry (OD) conditions to 80% relative humidity (RH), and from OD to 90% RH. The results suggest that single layer boards and isocyanate resin provide greater dimensional stability to OSB than three layer boards or phenol formaldehyde resin. In addition, the water absorption and thickness swell data were effectively modeled by equations developed for wood fiber/polymer composites.

The purpose of this research was to quantify properties of strandboard panels manufactured with various preservatives at loading levels effective against native termites. Panels were manufactured using nine different formulations. The method of preservative addition was also examined for some preservative formulations, increasing the total number of preservative treatments to twelve. Panels were manufactured with one target retention for each preservative treatment. An effective preservative loading relative to termites was established by previous studies or referencing current standards. Mechanical testing performed included static bending and internal bond. Physical testing included water absorption, thickness swell, and linear expansion. Few treatments met the Canadian standards for strandboard, but several preservatives performed well. Copper naphthenate, bifenthrin, and copper betaine each deserve further investigation to optimize manufacturing variables to meet required mechanical and physical properties.