Abstract: Disclosed herein is a cellulosic composite article and steam injection press methods of making the same by combining a phenolic resin with cellulosic material to form a mixture and, thereafter, providing a catalyzing agent, such as aluminum chloride, to the mixture. As an alternative, the method may include the steps of combining a catalyzing agent with a cellulosic material to form a mixture and, thereafter, providing a phenolic resin to the mixture. The method further includes the steps of forming a mat from the catalyzing agent-containing mixture and consolidating the catalyzing agent-containing mat in a pressing apparatus under heat, steam, and pressure to form the consolidated cellulosic product.

Abstract: A method of forming a consolidated wood product is disclosed wherein zinc borate and resin are mixed with cellulosic material to form treated cellulosic material, followed by applying heat and pressure to form a consolidated cellulosic product. A consolidated product comprises zinc borate, resin, and cellulosic material, wherein the zinc borate is distributed throughout the lignocellulosic material. A steam injection process is also disclosed.