MDF: Application, Technical Information and Hazards

Application

MDF was primarily used for in the manufacture of office and home furniture based products such as desks, bench tops, coffee tables, shelving and cabinets, frames and flooring. The smooth and straight finish of MDF makes it ideal for wide range for coverings and finishes. Paper and Melamine veneers provide a limitless design of colours and patterns. True wood veneers, plastics, paints and aluminium will all adhere to MDF.  

MDF weight to strength ratio and aesthetics have seen it being introduced to many other applications than basic box design furniture. It is used extensively in kitchens and for mouldings, and in bathroom environments as well as flooring. The range of finishes is also seeing MDF enter the market as central pieces of furniture such as coffee tables, dining tables through to wall art and general décor.

The success of MDF is largely due to the ease of using the product throughout the production process. A manufacturer of a finished product can quickly apply a primer and a coat or two of paint to produce a nice finished surface. Some products are finished in a real wood veneer thus resulting a finish very similar, if not the same as a solid wood carved item complete with grain and texture. The overall result for the producer is a cheaper processing overhead from raw materials to final product which is more durable higher quality product than standard particle board and similar finish to that of solid wood but without the weight or risk of damage and write-off during manufacture. As such, manufactures may be able to substitute any similar current material for MDF and achieve a better more cost effective result.

Technical Information

MDF has a density of 600-800 kg/m³ or .022-.029 lbs/in3, in contrast to particle board (160-450 kg/m³) and to high-density fibreboard (600-1450 kg/m³). It strength will range from a MOR from 28 to 80 MPa and Modulus of Elasticity of up to 3000 MPa

Disadvantages and hazards

Due to its construction from fibres, very fine dust particles are released into the air when the material is cut. A face mask or respirator should be worn and the material be cut in a controlled and ventilated environment.

Formaldehyde resins, commonly used to bind MDF together can emit urea formaldehyde that can introduce health risks if in high concentration. This can occur immediately after manufacture and compounded by storing large volumes of MDF in confined spaces.

While urea formaldehyde is always being slowly released from the surface of MDF it is reduced by painting or similar finishes that coat the whole of the product which then seals in the urea formaldehyde. Other finishes such as wax and oil may be used but are less effective at sealing in the urea formaldehyde. While this can potentially result in a risk for the home consumer purchasing MDF products, most, if not all consumer products have a suitable finish to limit any release. The primary concern is therefore with the people working with the material during the manufacturing process.