Meadowood Products Physical Properties

The type of products Meadowood Industries, Inc. produces have characteristics that are unique in the board industry. The panels, board, and molded products have strength, elasticity, insulative, and acoustic properties that are generally greater than similar wood products. The products made, primarily from ryegrass, are currently used in decorative and niche markets.

Independent laboratory test information provided here is for reference only, and not to be considered as approval or certification. Certification and performance programs are available for regular testing of mill run samples for specific board grades.

Property Ranges

Boards are produced in various densities of 20 to 55 pounds per cubic foot and in thickness ranges of 1/32 to 1 1/4 inch. The most common Meadowood products are 1/4 inch 40 pound density boards that exceed ANSI 208.1-1999 Particleboard standards, and approach those of Oriented Strand Board (OSB).

Property Variables

Physical and performance properties are primarily controlled by variations in the furnish or particle size, the method of particle distribution within the board, the type or mix of raw material and the quantity or mix of binder. Higher density products usually have greater strength. Surface texture, board density, and strength are usually a factor of binder ratio controlled by the duration of the temperature, pressure, and cycle time in the press. The current products are designed for interior applications. Exterior products can be produced, but at higher costs.

Current Typical Properties

The present typical 40-42 pound density, 48" x 96"' x 1/4" boards demonstrate minimum physical properties of:

	Modules of Rupture (MOR) of 4,700 psi
	Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) of 550,000 psi
	Tensile Strength of 1970 psi
	Maximum Linear Expansion of 0.20 inches at 50-90% Relative Humidity
	R value of 0.68, which is about twice that of wood.
	Flame spread is Class C or III with smoke toxins higher in the crop materials than in the finished product. (Additives or coatings are available to improve flame spread.)

Surface Appearance

The appearance and texture of the board surface can be customized by altering the arrangement and size of the ryegrass stem sections.

Finish treatments and Glue holding

The products accept most paints, stains and clear finishes that are made for wood products. Paint remains adhered to the board during humidity tests. Wood glue, veneer adhesives and contact cements perform approximately the same as with wood products. Structural materials bond very well, such as veneer for furniture and cabinets or foam for Structural Insulated Panels (SIP).

Millworking

The products machine similar to composite wood products. However, carbide tools are recommended due to a slightly higher abrasion factor. The natural resilience of the board allows die cutting of small parts with minimal deformation of the edges and the surface bounces back from misplaced hammer marks. Screw holding is good and nails close to the edge do not splinter out.

Resilience and Elasticity

The resilience and random pattern of the surface is well suited for tackboard use, particularly in lower board densities. Minor surface scratch and scuff marks are generally not visible.

Strength and Property Examples:

This is an example of the strength of 1/2 inch MeadowBoard™ suspended between 12" x 12" octagon risers that are made of 1/4 inch MeadowBoard™.

The 16d nail driven 1/4 inch from the corner edges of a 1/4 inch board does not deform the edges.

Flame Spread? The 1/4 inch MeadowBoard™ will char but will not support combustion without an external flame.

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