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USF Research: Water Duration & Cabinets – Phase II

July 23, 2015 in Featured Projects

 

USF_R&D Logo

 

Phase II:  Testing & Results

William Yanko, PhD, PE

William Yanko, PhD, PE

To study the effects of water on wood-based composite cabinetry (particleboard), U. S. Forensic engineers, under the direction of William Yanko, PhD, PE, conducted an intricate experimental test program.  Visit USF Research: Phase I to learn about the initial stages of the study.

 

 

Testing Program

The testing program had a cycle time of 70 total days. The flow rates were calibrated to 15-25 drips per minute.  Observations were continuous and the data collection was based on scheduled intervals.

Observation Schedule

Observation Schedule

Water delivery onto the cabinet shelf

 

Test Program Observations:  Day 2

Discoloration of back panel
Distortion of veneer materials
No corrosion on door hinges
Swelling of kick plate and vertical panels

Test Program Observations:  Day 7

Significant swelling; no material “break apart”
No visible mold growth beneath the cabinet

Test Program Observations:  Day 14

Visible mold growth beneath the cabinet
Visible mold growth on the drywall

Test Program Observations:  Day 21

Vertical deflection of shelf (3/16”) and veneer loss (for cabinet filled with 1” of water; none otherwise)
No break-apart of particleboard

Test Program Observations:  Day 63

Vertical deflection of shelf (2.25”) and veneer loss (for cabinet filled with 1” of water; none otherwise)
Significant mold growth underneath
Mold growth in adjacent cabinets
Mold growth on wall behind the cabinets

No corrosion of door hinges
No break-apart of particleboard

General Observations

  • Swelling of particleboard after 1 day
  • Fungal growth under cabinets at 14 days
  • Bowing (3/16”) of cabinet shelf at 21 days (for cabinet filled with 1” of water; none otherwise)
  • Minor corrosion of fasteners at 70 days
  • No corrosion of door hinges at 70 days

Testing Program Summary

Summary of Testing Results

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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