Particleboard is a cost-effective and versatile material widely used in construction and furniture manufacturing. Its primary advantages include affordability, ease of shaping, and uniformity, while key drawbacks are low strength, moisture sensitivity, and potential formaldehyde emissions.

The affordability stems from its production using recycled wood chips and adhesive, reducing raw material costs. Particleboard’s versatility allows it to be used in budget-friendly furniture, cabinetry, and structural components due to its ability to be routed, sanded, and painted. However, its low density (typically 350–700 kg/m³) limits load-bearing capacity, making it unsuitable for heavy-duty applications. For example, particleboard panels are often avoided in load-bearing walls or flooring due to susceptibility to bending and deflection under stress.

Moisture sensitivity is another critical limitation. When exposed to humidity, particleboard absorbs moisture, leading to warping, delamination, or increased weight. This issue is exacerbated in tropical climates, where humidity levels exceed 60%, accelerating degradation. Studies by the American Wood Products Association (AWPA) indicate that particleboard can lose up to 20% of its structural integrity after prolonged exposure to moisture.

Formaldehyde emissions from urea-formaldehyde (UF) adhesives used in particleboard production pose health risks. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies UF as a probable carcinogen. While newer low-formaldehyde adhesives exist, compliance with ANSI/AWWA M271 standards requires rigorous testing. In 2022, the EPA reported that 15% of particleboard samples exceeded permissible formaldehyde levels, highlighting regulatory challenges.

Despite these drawbacks, particleboard remains popular in low-cost applications due to its balance of cost and functionality. Innovations like phenolic resin adhesives and higher-density variants (up to 900 kg/m³) are gradually improving durability, but widespread adoption in high-stress environments remains limited.