Comparison of binderless boards produced with different tissues of totora (Schoenoplectus californicus (C.A. Mey) Soják) stems

Different types of non-wood forest products have been used to produce binderless boards with potential environmental benefits. Totora (Schoenoplectus californicus) is a macrophyte that has long been used for traditional constructions in the Americas; however, its contemporary applications are limited. In this study, the feasibility of producing binderless boards using different tissues of totora stems was studied. The physical characteristics, lower lignin content, and lower solvent extractives content of pith particles caused better particle's interactions that promoted their self-bonding effect that generated better MOR and IB values of pith binderless boards. However, the hygroscopic nature of pith particles also created high TS and WA for pith boards, whereas boards made with the rind, which has higher extractives and lignin content showed the lowest TS and WA values but also lower mechanical resistance. These findings may help understand the potentialities of these biomass resources and optimize the industrial processes for producing construction materials with them.