Development of production, properties and application of OSB boards

OSB is basically an American product replacing low-quality softwood in the construction industry. In 1993, there were 38 OSB plants in North America, producing more than 9 million m3 of OSB panels. OSB projects are under way in various stages and the total capacity is expected to exceed 16 million m3 by 1998. The present annual OSB consumption of almost 10 million m3 will nearly double by the year 2000. In both the U.S. and Canada, substantial OSB volumes will need to be directed to offshore markets in the next five years to maintain North American operating rates. The OSB market has increased 16% annually and the strong growth continues in North America and in Europe. OSB is a fairly new product in Europe. However, the capacity has been growing rapidly from some 0.2 million m3 in 1993 and will grow to about 1 million m3 by the year 2000. Major application of these boards is for roof and wall sheathing, subflooring, exterior and interior cladding, temporary and permanent fencing, pallets and crates, mobile and travelhomes, concrete and void forms in the construction industry and for a soffits and ceilings. The major application of OSB and Waferboards in North America is OSB in the building industry, Waferboards are for decorative use. In the European market the major application of these boards is for decorative use. European Standards EN 300 were accepted in Europe in 1997. This standard divided OSB into four types: OSB/1 - general purpose boards, and boards for interior fitments (including furniture) for use in dry conditions. OSB/2 - Load-bearing boards for use in dry conditions OSB/3 - Load-bearing boards for use in humid conditions OSB/4 - Heavy duty-bearing boards for use in humid conditions.