Interlaminar shear strength of medium-density fiberboard obtained from asymmetrical four-point bending tests

The interlaminar shear strength was obtained by conducting an asymmetrical four-point bending test. Four types of specimens including rectangular, side-grooved, side-tapered, and notched specimens, were prepared. In the test, the span lengths varied, and the influence of the span length with respect to the specimen depth was examined. The specimen configuration was also examined. The interlaminar shear strength was effectively obtained, except for the notched specimens, when the span length was appropriately determined. When considering convenience in the preparation of the specimen, the rectangular specimen is particularly recommended, although the effective span length is restricted. In contrast, the side-tapered specimen is particularly recommended when considering a wide range of span lengths, although the fabrication of the specimen is somewhat time-consuming.