Method and composition for reduction of formaldehyde emission in wood composite panels

Abstract

The invention is a composition of matter and method for its use in reducing formaldehyde emission from wood composite panels bonded with aminoplast resins. The preferred composition comprises urea, a carbohydrate based material such as cooked or gelatinized starch, and an acidic catalyst for the resin. The ratio of urea to carbohydrate based material is in the range of 10:1 to 40:1 while the urea forms from 20-60% of the composition. In use, the composition is preferably sprayed on the wood particles, flakes or fiber in the blender at the same time resin is added. Typical usage is 0.4-3 parts, on a urea basis, added to each 100 parts of dry wood substance. Depending on several factors, the reduction in formaldehyde emission ranges from 60-90% without serious deterioration occurring in any other product physical properties.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.