Medium density fiberboard (MDF)

Description

A common name for an engineered wood product made from mixture of fine wood fibers and resin bonded together then comporessed into panels with smooth, flat surfaces at high temperature and pressure. Medium density fiberboard (MDF) panels are constructed from 82% wood fiber, 9% urea-formaldehyde resin and 1% paraffin wax. The density of the board, typically between 500-1000 kg/m3, is dependant on the type of fiber (softwood or hardwood) that is used. MDF boards are available in large sheets (4' x 8') in a variety of thicknesses, such as 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", 3/4" and 1". In recent years, manufacturers have started using greener materials, such as non-toxic binders, and non-wood fibers (straw and bamboo). Variations, lightweight (L-MDF) and ultralightweight (U-MDF), use less quantities of resin, resulting in lower weight, but also less strength.

Synonyms and Related Terms

Medium-density fiberboard; MDF; Medex®; Medite®; Medite II®

Personal Risks

When cut, MDF boards produce a large quantity of dust.

Collection Risks

MDF products emit formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds.

Working Properties

MDF boards are consistent in strength and size. They may be glued, doweled, painted or laminated and are dimensionally stable. Low -grade MDF may swell and break when saturated with water. Unsealed MDF may warp or expand in Humid environments.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Property	Standard MDF	Lightweight MDF	Ultralightweight MDF
Weight 3/4"x4'x8' sheet	90 lbs	76 lbs	64 lbs
Face screw-holding strength	337 llbs	247 lbs	180lbs

Sources Checked for Data in Record

• Wood Magazine: https://www.woodmagazine.com/wood-supplies/lumber/whats-the-difference-between-mdo-and-mdf

• External source or communication Comment: Contributed information from Charles Goodwin.

• Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medium-density_fibreboard