A Chip off the Old Block
Have you ever reached into a wooden cabinet and snagged your finger on a nasty splinter? It never would have happened if that cabinet had been made from medium-density fiberboard (MDF). This invention of the 1960s is formed by gluing together wood fibers under high heat and pressure, resulting in a flexible material similar to particle board. Like particle board, MDF has no grain, which greatly reduces the likelihood of splitting and splintering. Unlike particle board, MDF resists warping when exposed to moisture. Cheaper and tougher than wood, MDF is popularly used for desks, chairs, and shelves. Because MDF can be made entirely from recycled wood, it is a beloved choice of many environmentally conscious consumers. Depending on its intended application, MDF can be engineered to resist fire, water, or nuclear particles.
Hidden Risks?
In spite of its many positives, medium density fiberboard does have some drawbacks. Its comparatively high density makes it heavy and difficult to move. It dulls more quickly than other wood options, and it is somewhat susceptible to chipping and denting. More seriously, the glue used to bind the wood fibers in MDF contains urea formaldehyde, which the US Environmental Protection Agency classifies as a probable carcinogen. The cancer-causer is released in sawdust particles when MDF is machined, and these can quite dangerous to inhale in large quantities. This gives rise to health concerns for workers who produce it and cut it, but these risks can be minimized by wearing goggles and masks and by using saws that cut the board more cleanly. For the average person working with MDF, sawdust can be avoided by gluing pieces together with wood glue instead of nailing them. Alternatively, boards of MDF can be connected with wood-joints or pins. Yet, even when it is not being cut, MDF is constantly releasing urea formaldehyde at a slow rate, so it is important that its entire surface be coated in a finish to trap in the poisonous chemical. Wax and oil finishes are acceptable, but the most effective seal is an even layer of paint. Properly coated, well-maintained MDF poses no health threat, but consumers should be aware of the risk of cancer from unfinished products.
Generally, MDF is a safe and cheap alternative to traditional wooden options, and many consumers find its smooth, grainless surface aesthetically pleasing. For those who do prefer a grained or textured look, these effects can be achieved with paint and finisher. Added to the environmental benefits of reducing wood waste, these factors make MDF a great option for furnishing a modern office or home.
