Physical and Mechanical Properties of Wood-Based Sandwich Panels Reinforced with Basalt, Glass Fiber Fabric, and Jute Fabric

Abstract

Physical and mechanical properties were investigated for wood-based sandwich panels reinforced with basalt fiber fabric (BFF), glass fiber fabric (GFF), and jute fabric (JF). The panels consist of oriented strand board (OSB) cores and beech plywood facings, with reinforcements bonded by polyurethane adhesive. Properties analyzed included screw withdrawal strength (SWS), modulus of elasticity (MOE), density , and modulus of rupture (MOR). Results showed that reinforcement type significantly influenced panel performance. Jute fabric reinforcement yielded the highest stiffness (MOE of 1810 N/mm²) compared to unreinforced panels (1500 N/mm²). The BFF-reinforced panels exhibited the greatest bending strength (MOR of 62.17 N/mm²), while unreinforced panels had the lowest (53.4 N/mm²). All reinforced panels demonstrated improved SWS over unreinforced ones. Overall, reinforcing wood-based sandwich panels with jute fabric, GFF, or BFF exhibited enhanced density, bending strength, and connection strength. Reinforcement materials, including synthetic options such as glass and basalt fibers, offer lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and mechanically superior materials widely used in engineering. Natural fibers, such as jute, provide environmentally friendly reinforcement with benefits such as renewability and good insulation but face variability issues due to natural factors.  The BFF composites present a promising alternative with higher tensile strength and elastic modulus than GFF, making them effective reinforcements for wood-based sandwich panels.