kuitulevy

Kuitulevy, or fibreboard, is a sheet material made from wood fibres bonded with synthetic resin or other binders and pressed under heat and pressure to form a dense panel. It is produced in several grades that differ in density and performance, collectively referred to as fibreboard. Common types include low-density fibreboard (LDF), medium-density fibreboard (MDF) and high-density fibreboard (HDF); a traditional form is hardboard, which is very dense and strong.

Kuitulevy is manufactured by defibrating wood into fibres, mixing them with an adhesive such as urea-formaldehyde, phenol-formaldehyde or melamine-urea-formaldehyde resins, and sometimes wax, forming a mat that is hot-pressed to cure the resin and bond the fibres. The resulting boards have smooth surfaces that can be veneered, laminated or painted. Densities typically range from about 600–800 kg/m³ for MDF and 800–1,100 kg/m³ for HDF, with hardboard often exceeding 1,000 kg/m³. Several moisture-resistant grades exist for specific applications.

Properties and uses: Kuitulevy is relatively dimensionally stable, easy to machine, and provides a uniform surface suitable for painting, laminating and veneering. It is widely used for interior applications such as furniture components, cabinetry, interior paneling and doors, wall and ceiling linings, shop fittings, and underlayment for floors. Some grades are employed for acoustic panels or insulation, while exterior use requires special treatments or coatings.

Environmental and safety considerations: Fibreboards are made with adhesives that may emit formaldehyde; modern products often use low-emission grades. They can be recycled or reprocessed where facilities exist, but disposal should account for adhesive content and local regulations.

History: Development of fibreboard began in the early 20th century, with hardboard and MDF becoming widespread in the mid-to-late 20th century. In Finland and broader Europe, kuitulevy has long been a standard interior material.