RAW MATERIALS AND APPLICATIONS Biological Performance of Hard Wood Composite formulated from Rice Straw and Polystyrene Foam Wastes

The objective of this study was to evaluate the biological resistance of Hard Wood Composite (HWC) panel incorporating various concentrations of Zinc Borate (ZB) and / or Magnesium Hydroxide (MH) against some fungi and bacteria decay. 

Many types of Hard Wood Composites (HWC) based on natural cellulosic resources, as filling materials, are manufactured [1, 2] even on industrial scales [3]. The most notable property of natural cellulosic resources is their biodegradability that grants their regeneration. An elementary understanding of this advantage and available methods for controlling it this is required for protection and appropriate usage of these resources. The growth of mold, as a microorganism, not only affect the performance of the construction material, but also, can associated with pair of negative health im pacts [4].