Valorization of Cork Waste in Particleboards Production with Innovative Binder

Annual cork production exceeds 300,000 tons, of which over 85% is produced in Europe. Approximately 70% of cork is triturated, of which around 30% is sent to landfill and further used for energy production, which does not utilize its potential. Among potential solutions, mention should be made of cork valorization in particleboard production and of taking advantage of its exceptional properties. Herein, the study assessed the potential to manufacture novel particleboards with possible applications in the construction, building, or furniture sectors from cork waste. To enhance the innovative character and reduce environmental impact, a novel binder composed of a commonly used diisocyanate and ammonium bicarbonate was introduced. Unlike conventional resins, novel resins comprise only solid components, which makes the mixing process more straightforward. Using inexpensive inorganic salts enabled the manufacture of particleboards with increased hydrophobicity, reduced density, and enhanced thermal insulation performance, while simultaneously reducing the required amount of diisocyanate. However, these benefits were accompanied by the deterioration of mechanical performance. The obtained data suggested that by properly adjusting the materials’ composition, a compromise between density, mechanical performance, and other functionalities required by the particular applications can be achieved.