Abstract

In order to promote the use of wood in construction, this study aims to improve the physical and mechanical properties of plywood and laminated veneer lumber (LVL) made from radiata pine, a species that exhibits low physical-mechanical performance and durability. This improvement is pursued through the reinforcement of these products with engineered fibers and adhesives. Therefore, the behavior of basalt fiber combined with epoxy and polyvinyl acetate adhesives is analyzed at a laboratory scale, and compared to carbon fiber, which is more commonly used for this purpose but has disadvantages such as its high cost. The following tests were conducted in accordance with the methodologies described in the respective standards: surface roughness, swelling, static bending, and Janka hardness. The results obtained from the reinforced boards were compared to unreinforced standard boards, showing a swelling reduction of up to 100% in LVL panels. In terms of stiffness and bending strength, there was a 49% increase in MOR in plywood reinforced with carbon fiber and epoxy resin, and a 30% increase in MOE and 38% in MOR in LVL panels reinforced with carbon fiber and epoxy resin. Additionally, a 35% and 41% increase in Janka hardness was observed in plywood reinforced with carbon fiber and polyvinyl acetate, and in LVL panels reinforced with carbon fiber and epoxy resin, respectively. The study led to important conclusions regarding the use of engineered fibers as reinforcement. Firstly, it was confirmed that reinforcing the boards resulted in improved physical and mechanical properties compared to unreinforced panels. Secondly, in some cases, basalt fiber showed equal or even superior performance when compared to carbon fiber; the recommendation will depend on the intended use of the panel. © 2025, Universidad del Bio-Bio. All rights reserved.