ISO 16895:2016

DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD
ISO/DIS 16895
ISO/TC 89/SC 1 Secretariat: SA
Voting begins on: Voting terminates on:
2013-09-30 2013-12-30
Wood-based panels — Dry-process fibreboard
Panneaux à base de bois — Panneaux de fibres obtenus par procédé à sec
[Revision of first edition (ISO 16895-1:2008) and ISO 16895-2:2010]
ICS: 79.060.20
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED
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NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
ISO/DIS 16895:2013(E)
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED
TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS,
NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT
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©
PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. ISO 2013

ISO/DIS 16895:2013(E)
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ii © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 16895
Contents Page
Foreword . v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 2
4 Symbols and abbreviated terms . 2
5 Classification, designation and coding . 3
5.1 General . 3
5.1.1 Classification matrices . 3
5.1.2 Uses . 3
5.1.3 Additional classifications . 3
5.1.4 Structural grades . 3
5.2 Ultra-low-density fibreboard (UDF) . 4
5.3 Low-density fibreboard (LDF) . 4
5.4 Medium density fibreboard (MDF) . 5
5.5 High-density fibreboard (HDF) . 5
6 Tests related to each grade . 6
6.1 Mandatory tests . 6
6.2 Optional tests . 6
7 Thickness ranges . 8
8 Expression of specification limits and general requirements . 8
8.1 Expression of specification limits . 8
8.2 Lower specification limits. 9
8.3 Upper specification limits . 9
8.4 Moisture resistance requirement options . 9
8.5 Density variation, dimension and moisture content requirements . 10
8.6 Formaldehyde emission requirements . 10
8.7 Load bearing fibreboard . 11
9 Specific property requirements for ultra-low-density fibreboard (UDF-FN REG) . 11
10 Specific property requirements for low-density fibreboard . 12
10.1 General . 12
10.2 Requirements for furniture grade low-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions (LDF-
FN REG) . 12
10.3 Requirements for building grade low-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions (LDF-
BL REG) . 12
10.4 Requirements for general purpose low-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (LDF-GP MR1) . 13
10.5 Requirements for furniture grade low-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (LDF-FN MR1) . 13
10.6 Requirements for building grade low-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (LDF-BL MR1) . 14
10.7 Requirements for general purpose low-density fibreboard for use in high tropical humid
conditions (LDF-GP MR2) . 14
10.8 Requirements for furniture grade low-density fibreboard for use in high tropical humid
conditions (LDF-FN MR2) . 15
11 Specific property requirements for medium-density fibreboard . 15
11.1 General . 15
ISO/DIS 16895
11.2 Requirements for general purpose medium-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions
(MDF-GP REG) . 15
11.3 Requirements for furniture grade medium-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions
(MDF-FN REG) . 16
11.4 Requirements for building grade medium-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions
(MDF-BL REG) . 16
11.5 Requirements for load bearing medium-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions
(MDF-LB REG) . 17
11.6 Requirements for general purpose medium-density fibreboard for use in temperate
humid conditions (MDF-GP MR1) . 17
11.7 Requirements for furniture grade medium-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (MDF-FN MR1) . 18
11.8 Requirements for building grade medium-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (MDF-BL MR1). 18
11.9 Requirements for load bearing medium-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (MDF-LB MR1). 19
11.10 Requirements for general purpose medium-density fibreboard for use in high tropical
humid conditions (MDF-GP MR2) . 19
11.11 Requirements for furniture grade medium-density fibreboard for use in high tropical
humid conditions (MDF-FN MR2) . 20
11.12 Requirements for building grade medium-density fibreboard for use in high tropical
humid conditions (MDF-BL MR2) . 20
11.13 Requirements for load bearing medium-density fibreboard for use in high tropical humid
conditions (MDF-LB MR2). 21
11.14 Requirements for fitments grade medium-density fibreboard for use in exterior high
humid conditions (MDF-FN HMR) . 21
11.15 Requirements for building grade medium-density fibreboard for use in exterior high
humid conditions (MDF-BL HMR) . 22
12 Specific property requirements for high-density fibreboard . 22
12.1 General . 22
12.2 Requirements for general purpose high-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions
(HDF-GP REG) . 22
12.3 Requirements for building grade high-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions (HDF-
BL REG) . 23
12.4 Requirements for general purpose high-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (HDF-GP MR1) . 23
12.5 Requirements for building grade high-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (HDF-BL MR1) . 24
12.6 Requirements for general purpose high-density fibreboard for use in high humid
conditions (HDF-GP MR2) . 24
12.7 Requirements for building grade high-density fibreboard for use in tropical humid
conditions (HDF-BL MR2) . 25
13 Marking . 25
Annex A (normative) Calculation of 5-percentile and 95-percentile values . 26
A.1 General . 26
A.2 Notation symbols . 26
A.3 Calculations . 27
A.3.1 Mean value of each individual panel (panel mean) . 27
A.3.2 Standard deviation within each panel . 27
A.3.3 Grand mean (mean of panel means) . 27
A.3.4 Standard deviation of panel means . 27
A.3.5 Mean standard deviation of the test values within panels . 27
A.3.6 5- and 95-percentile of a normally distributed panel property . 27

iv © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 16895
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies
(ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO
technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
ISO 16895 was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 89, Wood-based Panels, Subcommittee SC 1,
Fibreboards.
This second/third/. edition cancels and replaces the first/second/. edition (), [clause(s) / subclause(s) /
table(s) / figure(s) / annex(es)] of which [has / have] been technically revised.

DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 16895

Wood-based panels — Dry process fibreboard
1 Scope
ISO 16895 specifies a classification matrix, related mandatory tests and thickness ranges for ultra-low-, low-,
medium-, and high-density dry process fibreboard.
The values listed in ISO 16895 relate to product properties used to classify fibreboards into one of four types
(UDF, LDF, MDF and HDF, see Clause 3), one of four grades (GP, FN, BL and LB), for use in one of four
service conditions (REG, MR1, MR2, and HMR EXT). The values are not characteristic values to be used for
design purposes.
NOTE 1 Fibreboards are broadly divided into two groups based on the manufacturing process, namely the dry process
group and the wet process group (see Clause 3). Wet process fibreboards lie outside the scope of ISO 16895.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 3340, Fibre building boards — Determination of sand content
ISO 9426, Wood-based panels — Determination of dimensions of panels
ISO 9427, Wood-based panels — Determination of density
ISO 12460-1, Wood-based panels — Determination of formaldehyde release — Part 1: Formaldehyde
emission by the 1-cubic-metre chamber method
ISO 12460-2, Wood-based panels — Determination of formaldehyde release — Part 2: Small-scale chamber
method
ISO 12460-3, Wood-based panels — Determination of formaldehyde release — Part 3: Gas analysis method
ISO 12460-4, Wood-based panels — Determination of formaldehyde release — Part 4: Desiccator method
ISO 12460-5, Wood-based panels — Determination of formaldehyde release — Part 5: Perforator method
ISO 16572, Timber structures — Wood-based panels — Test methods for structural properties
ISO 16978, Wood-based panels — Determination of modulus of elasticity in bending and of bending strength
ISO 16979, Wood-based panels — Determination of moisture content
ISO 16981, Wood-based panels — Determination of surface soundness
ISO 16983, Wood-based panels — Determination of swelling in thickness after immersion in water
ISO 16984, Wood-based panels — Determination of tensile strength perpendicular to the plane of the panel
ISO/DIS 16895
ISO 16985, Wood-based panels — Determination of dimensional changes associated with changes in relative
humidity
ISO 16987, Wood-based panels — Determination of moisture resistance under cyclic test conditions
ISO 16998, Wood-based panels — Determination of moisture resistance — Boil test
ISO 17064, Wood-based panels — Fibreboard, particleboard and oriented strand board (OSB) — Vocabulary
ISO 20585, Wood-based panels — Determination of wet bending strength after immersion in water at 70 °C or
100 °C (boiling temperature)
ISO 27528, Wood-based panels — Determination of resistance to axial withdrawal of screws
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 17064 and the following, apply.
3.1
dry process fibreboard
fibreboard with a forming line moisture content, as a mass fraction, of less than or equal to 20 % and whose
primary bonding results from applied adhesives or resins.
3.2
wet process fibreboard
fibreboard with a forming line moisture content, as a mass fraction, of greater than 20 % and whose primary
bonding results from felting of fibres and their inherent adhesive properties.
4 Symbols and abbreviated terms
BL building
DIY do-it-yourself
EXT exterior
F fungi resistant
FN furniture
FR fire retardant
GP general purpose
HDF high-density fibreboard
HMR highly moisture resistant
I insect resistant
LB load bearing
LDF low-density fibreboard
MDF medium-density fibreboard
MR1 moisture resistant—temperate
MR2 moisture resistant—tropical
REG regular
UDF ultra-low-density fibreboard
thickness
δ
2 © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 16895
5 Classification, designation and coding
5.1 General
5.1.1 Classification matrices
Overall classification matrices, which include all major classes available at the time of publication, are shown
in Tables 1 to 4. Tables 1 to 4 allow for future classes to be included as they become available on
international markets.
Not all products in the matrices shown in Tables 1 to 4 are currently available or under development. Realistic
property tables can only be developed for existing products. The remainder are potential future products and
property tables will be developed when necessary.
Density ranges given in product descriptions in 5.2 to 5.5 are a guide. Manufacturers may classify a product
as a particular type or grade if it meets all the property requirements of the nominated type or grade. For
example, a thin fibreboard of density 830 kg/m could be called MDF if it meets all property requirements of
the particular MDF grade nominated.
5.1.2 Uses
Products specified in this document have the following applications:
regular REG dry conditions only
moisture resistant—temperate MR1 temperate humid conditions
moisture resistant—tropical MR2 Tropical humid conditions
highly moisture resistant HMR high humid conditions
exterior EXT exposed to weather conditions, above ground
general purpose GP applications not requiring the specific properties of furniture or
load-bearing grades
furniture FN in furniture manufacture, cabinet making, fitments, joinery, bases
for surface decorative treatment
building BL building applications requiring high dimensional stability
load bearing LB structural or load bearing
do-it-yourself DIY home projects done by residents rather than professional
tradespersons
5.1.3 Additional classifications
If additional attribute classifications are used, such as fire retardant (FR), insect resistant (I) and fungi
resistant (F), claimed performance shall be confirmed by appropriate testing. Relevant tests and performance
requirements may be specified by national standards and regulations.
5.1.4 Structural grades
When a product is used in a load-bearing or structural application, additional information shall be available in
the form of characteristic values derived from structural testing (ISO 16572), experimental test results or
history of use to validate its performance under the proposed conditions.
It should be noted that engineering design methods do not provide for design for high humid or exterior
service conditions. The inclusion of the MDF-LB grade in the “high humid” section of the classification matrix
(Table 3) is on the basis that performance is validated by experimental test results or history of use.
ISO/DIS 16895
5.2 Ultra-low-density fibreboard (UDF)
UDF has a nominal density less than 550 kg/m and is classified according to Table 1.
Table 1 — UDF classification matrix
Service conditions
UDF type
Dry Humid temperate Humid tropical High humid Exterior
UDF-FN
REG furniture grade
No existing No existing No existing
No existing product
product
product product
Application examples Light-duty partitions

5.3 Low-density fibreboard (LDF)
3 3
LDF has a nominal density in the range 550 kg/m to 650 kg/m and is classified according to Table 2.
Table 2 — LDF classification matrix
Service conditions
LDF type
Dry Humid temperate Humid tropical High humid Exterior
LDF-GP MR1 general purpose MR2 general purpose
No
No existing
No existing product existing
Application Roof underlay/sheathing, Roof underlay/sheathing,
product
product
examples wall sheathing wall sheathing
LDF-FN
REG furniture grade MR1 furniture grade MR2 furniture grade
No
No existing
Furniture, DIY uses,
existing
Application Furniture, DIY uses, Furniture, DIY uses,
product
general uses, light-duty
product
examples general uses general uses
partitions
LDF-BL
REG building grade MR1 building grade
No
No existing
No existing product existing
Application Window frames, door Window frames, door
product
product
examples backs backs
4 © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 16895
5.4 Medium density fibreboard (MDF)
3 3
MDF has a nominal density in the range 650 kg/m to 800 kg/m and is classified according to Table 3.
Table 3 — MDF classification matrix
Service conditions
MDF type
Dry Humid temperate Humid tropical High humid Exterior
MDF-GP REG general purpose MR1 general purpose MR2 general purpose
No
No existing product existing
Application DIY uses, general DIY uses, general DIY uses, general
product
examples uses, veneer grade uses, overlay floors uses, overlay floors
MR1 furniture/fitments MR2 furniture/fitments HMR furniture/fitments
MDF-FN REG furniture grade
grade grade grade
No
Carcase, furniture, Carcase, furniture,
Cladding, fascias,
Carcase, furniture,
existing
cabinets for kitchen cabinets for kitchen
Application cabinets, substrate window joinery,
product
and bathroom, and bathroom,
examples for any decorative decking, protected
substrate for any substrate for any
finish
exterior construction
decorative finish decorative finish
MDF-LB REG load bearing MR1 load bearing MR2 load bearing
No
Domestic or industrial
Domestic flooring, Domestic or industrial
No existing product existing
Application flooring, wall and roof
shelving, general flooring, shelving,
product
examples sheathing, beams,
construction general construction
toilet partitions
MDF-BL REG building grade MR1 building grade MR2 building grade HMR building grade
No
Window frames, door Window frames, door
existing
Application Window frames, door Window frames, door linings, bearing walls, linings, bearing walls,
product
floor and roof floor and roof
examples linings, bearing walls linings, bearing walls
sheathing, underlay sheathing, underlay

5.5 High-density fibreboard (HDF)
HDF has a nominal density greater than 800 kg/m and is classified according to Table 4.
Table 4 — HDF classification matrix
Service conditions
HDF type
Dry Humid temperate Humid tropical High humid Exterior
HDF-GP REG general purpose MR1 general purpose MR2 general purpose
No
No existing
Composite flooring, Composite flooring, wall Composite flooring, wall
existing
Application
product
machined articles, panelling in public panelling in public
product
examples
patterns, packaging amenities, packaging amenities
HDF-BL REG building grade MR1 building grade MR2 building grade
No
No existing
existing
Application
product
Composite flooring Composite flooring Bearing walls
product
examples
ISO/DIS 16895
6 Tests related to each grade
6.1 Mandatory tests
The mandatory tests shown in Tables 5 to 8 shall be applied to the various fibreboard grades identified in
Tables 1 to 4 respectively. All property requirements shall be met at dispatch from the factory.
6.2 Optional tests
If information on additional properties is agreed between user and manufacturer, it shall be determined using
test method(s) nominated from: ISO 3340; ISO 16985; and/or ISO 27528.
Table 5 — Tests relating to each UDF grade
Property Method UDF-FN
Dimensions ISO 9426 REG
Density variation ISO 9427 REG
Formaldehyde emission ISO 12460-1 REG
Moisture content ISO 16979 REG
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 REG
Bending strength—Modulus of rupture (MOR) ISO 16978 REG

Table 6 — Tests relating to each LDF grade
Property Method LDF-GP LDF-FN LDF-BL
Dimensions ISO 9426 MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Density variation ISO 9427 MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Formaldehyde emission ISO 12460-1 MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Moisture content ISO 16979
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Bending strength—
ISO 16978 MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Modulus of rupture (MOR)
Bending stiffness—
ISO 16978 MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Modulus of elasticity (MOE)
Thickness swelling ISO 16983 MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Surface soundness ISO 16981 — MR1 MR2 —
ISO 16987
Moisture resistance ISO 16998 MR1 MR2 MR1 MR2 —
ISO 20585
Moisture resistance—
ISO 20585 — — MR1
Wet bending strength
6 © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 16895
Table 7 — Tests relating to each MDF grade
Method
Property MDF-GP MDF-FN MDF-BL MDF-LB
ISO
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
Dimensions 9426 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
HMR HMR
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
Density variation 9427 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
HMR HMR
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
Formaldehyde emission 12460-1
HMR HMR
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
Moisture content 16979 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
HMR HMR
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
Internal bond strength 16984 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
HMR HMR
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
Bending strength—
16978 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
Modulus of rupture (MOR) HMR HMR
Bending stiffness—
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
16978 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
Modulus of elasticity (MOE) HMR HMR
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
Thickness swelling 16983 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1 MR2
HMR HMR
REG MR1 MR2
Surface soundness 16981 — — —
HMR
Moisture resistance 16998 MR1 MR2 MR1 MR2 HMR — MR1 MR2
Moisture resistance—
20585 MR2 MR2 MR1 MR2 HMR MR2
Wet bending strength
Table 8 — Tests relating to each HDF grade
Property Method HDF-GP HDF-BL
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Dimensions ISO 9426
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Density variation ISO 9427
REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Formaldehyde emission ISO 12460-1
Moisture content ISO 16979 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Bending strength—
ISO 16978 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Modulus of rupture (MOR)
Bending stiffness—
ISO 16978 REG MR1 MR2 REG MR1
Modulus of elasticity (MOE)
Thickness swelling MR1 MR2 REG MR1
ISO 16983
—
REG MR1 MR2
Surface soundness ISO 16981
ISO 16987
Moisture resistance ISO 16998 MR1 MR2 —
ISO 20585
Moisture resistance—
ISO 20585 — MR1 MR2
Wet bending strength
ISO/DIS 16895
7 Thickness ranges
Specification values shall be related to the ranges of thickness, δ, shown. The specification of a particular
thickness of product shall be determined by consulting the correct thickness range.
0 < δ ≤ 2,5 mm
2,5 mm < δ ≤ 4,0 mm
4,0 mm < δ ≤ 6,0 mm
6,0 mm < δ ≤ 9,0 mm
9,0 mm < δ ≤ 12 mm
12 mm < δ ≤ 19 mm
19 mm < δ ≤ 30 mm
30 mm < δ ≤ 45 mm
δ > 45 mm
8 Expression of specification limits and general requirements
8.1 Expression of specification limits
This International Standard may be used to evaluate groups of panels or production batches. To evaluate a
group of panels, this requires that:
a) The mandatory tests of Tables 5 to 8 be applied to samples of the group. Conditioning of test specimens
is required and is specified in each test method.
b) The results of the tests be evaluated against the appropriate specification limits in Tables 9 to 38
according to the product types, grades and thickness ranges. Tables 9 and 10 apply to all product types
and thickness ranges of panels.
For density variation and dimensions (Table 9), specification limits are based on the mean values for
individual panels (calculated in accordance with Annex A) and are maximum tolerances. For formaldehyde
emission, Table 10 gives upper specification limits for individual panel results.
Specification limits in Tables 11 to 38 are based on 5 (lower) or 95 (upper) percentile expressions, according
to 8.2 and 8.3.
Dry-process fibreboards shall comply with the relevant requirements of this International Standard when
despatched from the producing factory.
8 © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 16895
8.2 Lower specification limits
The requirements in Tables 11 to 38 are the lower specification limits for the following properties:
a) bending strength—modulus of rupture (MOR);
b) bending stiffness—modulus of elasticity (MOE);
c) internal bond strength;
d) surface soundness;
e) internal bond strength after cyclic test;
f) internal bond strength after boil test;
g) wet bending strength.
The 5-percentile values based on the mean values for individual panels and calculated in accordance with
Annex A shall be equal to or greater than the lower specification limits in Tables 11 to 38.
8.3 Upper specification limits
The requirements in Tables 9 to 38 are the upper specification limits for the following properties:
a) thickness swelling after 24 h.
b) thickness swelling after cyclic test.
The 95-percentile values based on the mean values for individual panels and calculated in accordance with
Annex A shall be equal to or less than the upper specification limits in Tables 11 to 38.
8.4 Moisture resistance requirement options
Requirements for moisture resistance are dependent upon the test method employed to assess this property.
Three alternative sets of requirements (Option 1, Option 2 and Option 3) are set out in Tables 14 to 18, 23 to
31, and 34 to 38, corresponding to the three principal recognized methods of evaluation. It is necessary to
show compliance with only one of these three options, as follows:
 Option 1:   Requirements apply to those fibreboards subjected to a c yclic accelerated ageing test,
followed by the determination of thickness swelling and internal bond, as described in ISO 16987.
 Option 2:   Requirements apply to those fibreboards subjected to an accelerated ageing test, consisting
of immersion in boiling water followed by determination of internal bond, as described in ISO 16998.
 Option 3:   Requirements apply to those fibreboards subjected to an accelerated ageing test consisting
of determination of the wet bending strength following immersion in water at 70 °C or immersion in boiling
water for exterior grade products, as described in Method A or Method B of ISO 20585.
NOTE Moisture resistance testing is not intended to prove durability of a new resin system but to confirm the correct
processing of panels made from a resin system proven to provide the required durability.
ISO/DIS 16895
8.5 Density variation, dimension and moisture content requirements
At least 95 % of the mean values of the individual panels shall be within the maximum tolerances stated in
Table 9.
Density ranges given for each product type in Clause 5, are a guide only and not a mandatory specification.
Products may be designated as a particular type if they meet the specified requirements for that type.
Table 9 — Requirements for density variation, dimensions and moisture content
Property Test method Requirement
Density variation within panel ISO 9427 ±10 % max from mean
Length and width ISO 9426 ±2 mm/m, max. ±5 mm
Squareness ISO 9426 < 2 mm/m
Thickness range (mm, nominal)
Thickness
< 8 ≥ 8 to 12 > 12
ISO 9426
−0,3 −0,3 −0,5
— Unsanded panel
+1,5 +1,5 +1,7
— Sanded panel ±0,2 ±0,3 ±0,3
Moisture content (advisory only) ISO 16979 5 to 14 % (see Note)
NOTE This ISO Standard applies internationally. Wood products attain a moisture content according to the temperature
and relative humidity of their environment. The upper limits of this moisture content range will only apply in hot, humid areas.
8.6 Formaldehyde emission requirements
Compliance with formaldehyde requirements can be confirmed by applying one test method only of those
listed in Table 10. The reference chamber method can take up to four weeks for each test to be completed.
The other tests are designated production control methods because one test can be completed within 24 h.
Each individual panel result shall comply with the specification limits stated in Table 10 for the selected
method.
Table 10 — Maximum limits of formaldehyde emission/content
for fibreboard with formaldehyde classes 1 and 2
[Drafting Note: This Table covers both classes 1 and 2, and is reformatted to align with Table 9.]
Requirement—Maximum limit
Reference
Property Unit
chamber method
Formaldehyde class 1 Formaldehyde class 2
Emission ISO 12460-1 mg/m 0,124 0,080
a b
Emission ISO 12460-2 ppm 0,09
a
Emission ISO 12460-3 mg/m /h 3,5
a
Emission ISO 12460-4 mg/L 0,7
a
Content ISO 12460-5 mg/100 g 8,0
NOTE National regulations may impose restrictions on the use of panels of particular formaldehyde
emission levels.
a
If the small chamber method or any other method is used for production control, correlations should be established
with the reference chamber method to determine the emission value that is equivalent to the chamber method limit value
stated in this table. Correlations may be regional, national, company or plant specific as appropriate.
b
Determination with the following testing parameters: loading factor = 0,43 m2/m3, hourly air exchange rate = 0,5 −1,
climate = (25 ±1)°C, (50 ±4%).
10 © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 16895
8.7 Load bearing fibreboard
When fibreboard is classified as “load bearing” (LB) and nominated for structural applications, characteristic
strength and stiffness values shall be established based upon testing in accordance with ISO 16572 or
equivalent ASTM or EN standards. Alternatively, for specific load bearing applications (e.g. walls, roofs, floors,
I-joist webs), the load bearing fibreboard shall meet the specific performance requirements for that intended
application.
9 Specific property requirements for ultra-low-density fibreboard (UDF-FN REG)
Ultra low-density fibreboards have a nominal density of less than 550 kg/m .
Requirements for UDF-FN REG fibreboard are listed in Table 11.
Table 11 — Requirements for UDF-FN REG
Requirement
Thickness ranges (mm, nominal)
Property Test method Units
> 9,0 to 12 >12 to 19 > 19 to 30 > 30 to 45 >45
Bending strength (MOR) ISO 16978 MPa 18 14 13 12 12
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 MPa 0,35 0,35 0,30 0,30 0,30
24 h thickness swelling
ISO 16983 % 18 16 14 12 12
ISO/DIS 16895
10 Specific property requirements for low-density fibreboard
10.1 General
Low-density fibreboards have a nominal density of 550 to 650 kg/m .
10.2 Requirements for furniture grade low-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions (LDF-
FN REG)
Requirements for LDF-FN REG fibreboard are listed in Table 12.
Table 12 — Requirements for LDF-FN REG fibreboard
Requirement
Property Test method Units Thickness ranges (mm, nominal)
> 6,0 to 9,0 > 9,0 to 12 >12 to 19 > 19 to 30 > 30 to 45 >45
Bending strength (MOR) ISO 16978 MPa 20 20 18 15 14 14
Modulus of elasticity (MOE) ISO 16987 MPa 1 700 1 700 1 600 1 500 1 400 1 200
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 MPa 0,45 0,45 0,45 0,45 0,40 0,40
24 h thickness swelling ISO 16983 % 20 16 14 12 11 11

10.3 Requirements for building grade low-density fibreboard for use in dry conditions (LDF-
BL REG)
Requirements for LDF-BL REG fibreboard are listed in Table 13.
Table 13 — Requirements for LDF-BL REG fibreboard
Requirement
Property Test method Units Thickness ranges (mm, nominal)
> 6,0 to 9,0 > 9,0 to 12 > 12 to 19 > 19 to 30 > 30
Bending strength (MOR) ISO 16978 MPa 15 15 15 15 —
Modulus of elasticity (MOE) ISO 16987 MPa 1 500 1 500 1 500 1 400 —
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 MPa 0,30 0,30 0,30 0,30 —
24 h thickness swelling ISO 16983 % 20 12 12 8 —

12 © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 16895
10.4 Requirements for general purpose low-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (LDF-GP MR1)
Requirements for LDF-GP MR1 fibreboard are listed in Table 14.
Table 14 — Requirements for LDF-GP MR1 fibreboard
Requirement
Test
Property Units Thickness ranges (mm, nominal)
method
> 6,0 to 9,0 > 9,0 to 12 >12 to 19 > 19 to 30 > 30 to 45 >45
Bending strength (MOR) ISO 16978 MPa 20 20 18 16 16 14
Modulus of elasticity (MOE) ISO 16987 MPa 1 700 1 700 1 600 1 500 1 400 1200
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 MPa 0,45 0,45 0,45 0,45 0,40 0,40
24 h thickness swelling ISO 16983 % 18 16 13 12 11 10
Moisture resistance
Option 1: Cyclic test
Internal bond strength MPa 0,25 0,18 0,16 0,13 0,10 0,10
ISO 16987
Thickness swelling % 19 16 15 15 15 15
Option 2: Boil test
ISO 16998 MPa 0,12 0,09 0,09 0,09 0,08 0,07
Internal bond strength
Option 3: ISO 20585
MPa 6,0 5,5 4,5 3,5 3,0 3,0
Wet bending strength Method A
10.5 Requirements for furniture grade low-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (LDF-FN MR1)
Requirements for LDF-FN MR1 fibreboard are listed in Table 15.
Table 15 — Requirements for LDF-FN MR1 fibreboard
Requirement
Property Test method Units Thickness ranges (mm, nominal)
> 6,0 to 9,0 > 9,0 to 12 >12 to 19 > 19 to 30 > 30 to 45 >45
Bending strength (MOR) ISO 16978 MPa 22 22 20 17 15 15
Modulus of elasticity (MOE) ISO 16987 MPa 1 800 1 800 1 700 1 500 1 400 1 400
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 MPa 0,50 0,50 0,45 0,40 0,38 0,38
24 h thickness swelling ISO 16983 % 16 13 11 10 10 10
Surface soundness ISO 16981 MPa 0,7 0,7 0,8 0,8 0,8 0,8
Moisture resistance
Option 1: Cyclic test
Internal bond strength MPa 0,30 0,25 0,20 0,15 0,10 0,10
ISO 16987
Thickness swelling % 19 16 15 15 15 15
Option 2: Boil test
ISO 16998 MPa 0,15 0,15 0,12 0,12 0,10 0,10
Internal bond strength
Option 3: ISO 20585
MPa 6,5 6,0 5,0 4,0 3,5 3,5
Wet bending strength Method A
ISO/DIS 16895
10.6 Requirements for building grade low-density fibreboard for use in temperate humid
conditions (LDF-BL MR1)
Requirements for LDF-BL MR1 fibreboard are listed in Table 16.
Table 16 — Requirements for LDF-BL MR1 fibreboard
Requirement
Property Test method Units Thickness ranges (mm, nominal)
> 6,0 to 9,0 > 9,0 to 12 > 12 to 19 > 19 to 30 > 30
Bending strength (MOR) ISO 16978 MPa 22 22 22 21 —
Modulus of elasticity (MOE) ISO 16987 MPa 1 800 1 800 1 800 1 700 —
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 MPa 0,30 0,30 0,30 0,30 —
24 h thickness swelling ISO 16983 % 14,0 9,0 8,0 5,5 —
Moisture resistance— ISO 20585
Wet bending strength Method A MPa 10,0 10,0 10,0 9,0 —

10.7 Requirements for general purpose low-density fibreboard for use in high tropical humid
conditions (LDF-GP MR2)
Requirements for LDF-GP HMR MR2 fibreboard are listed in Table 17.
Table 17 — Requirements for LDF-GP HMR MR2 fibreboard
Requirement
Property Test method Units Thickness ranges (mm, nominal)
> 9,0 to 12 > 12 to 19 > 19 to 30
Bending strength (MOR) ISO 16978 MPa 20 18 17
Modulus of elasticity (MOE) ISO 16987 MPa 1 700 1 600 1 550
Internal bond strength ISO 16984 MPa 0,45 0,45 0,45
24 h thickness swelling ISO 16983 % 12 10 9
Moisture resistance
Option 1: Cyclic test
Internal bond strength MPa 0,20 0,20 0,20
ISO 16987
Thickness swell % 15 15 15
Option 2: Boil test
ISO 16998 MPa 0,10 0,10 0,10
Internal bond strength
Option 3: Wet bending strength ISO 20585, Method A MPa 10 9 8

14 © ISO 2013 – All rights reserved

ISO/DIS 16895
10.8 Requirements for furniture grade low-density fibreboard for use in high tropical humid
conditions (LDF-FN MR2)
Requirements for LDF-FN HMR MR2 fibreboard are listed in Table 18.
Table 18 — Requirements for LDF-FN HMR MR2 fibreboard
Requirement
Property Te
...