The smallest particles in wood recycling, known as fines, are often considered a low-value by-product. Demo D shows how they can instead be integrated in new particleboard production.

The work begins with improving the dry impact reactor (see Demo B), fine-tuning it to generate high quality fines suitable for board making. These recycled particles are then tested in industrial production lines at SONAE, where they replace part of the virgin wood normally used in particleboard surfaces. The goal is to substitute at least 20% of raw material with fines, enhancing circularity in the industry, while ensuring that the boards meet EU’s standards such as strength, durability and surface quality.