The Potential for Glass Wool Waste as a Filler in UF Adhesive to Promote Particleboard Strength

Wastes, biomasses, and nanoparticles have motivated reformulations of adhesives in the wood-based-panel industry. This study investigated the incorporation of glass wool (GW) waste as a filler material in urea–formaldehyde (UF) adhesive, evaluating its effects on the adhesive properties as well as on the physical, mechanical, fire-retardant, and acoustic properties of particleboards. Panels with a target density of 700 kg m−3 were produced with different proportions of glass wool in the adhesive (T1: 0%; T2: 3.34%; T3: 4.93%; T4: 6.52%; T5: 9.49%; T6: 12.35%). The adhesive-coated particle mat was pressed in a hydraulic press at 160 °C under a compression force of 72 tons for 10 min. The panels were subjected to analyses of their physical, mechanical, fire-retardant, and acoustic properties, as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. Statistical analysis involved regression, analysis of variance, and a Scott–Knott test (p < 0.05). The results indicated that adding 3.34% GW to the adhesive improved the modulus of rupture, internal bond strength, screw withdrawal resistance, and acoustic efficiency of the panels. A glass wool content of 12.35% enhanced the hardness and the damping factor. These findings highlight the potential of glass wool as a functional filler material in UF adhesive, promoting the development of stronger and more sustainable particleboards.