Abstract: A core/base layer, an intermediate layer, a divider layer between the core and intermediate layers, and a water-resistant layer on the intermediate layer opposite the core layer. The core and intermediate layers are made of a cementitious material to provide structural-strength and fire-resistance properties, with the core layer including an aggregate material for added strength, the intermediate layer including an hydrophobic additive for water resistance, and the divider layer positioned between the core and intermediate layers to form a physical barrier that prevents cross-migration of the aggregate material and the hydrophobic additive between these layers. The water-resistant layer includes a fiber-based carrier layer with an outward-facing surface having a weather barrier layer secured to it and with an opposite uncoated inward-facing surface having loose fiber strands extending from it and embedded into the intermediate layer to secure the water-resistant layer to the intermediate layer.

Abstract: Wax is a key ingredient in engineered wood composites, such as oriented strand board (OSB) and oriented strand lumber (OSL), to prevent and reduce swelling caused by water uptake. Wax, normally a byproduct of oil refining and lube production, is now considered a precious feedstock for producing higher margin product such as fuel or diesel. Disclosed herein are suitable alternative waxes to petroleum wax for use as sizing agents in producing engineered wood composites.

Abstract: Wax is a key ingredient in engineered wood composites, such as oriented strand board (OSB) and oriented strand lumber (OSL), to prevent and reduce swelling caused by water uptake. Wax, normally a byproduct of oil refining and lube production, is now considered a precious feedstock for producing higher margin product such as fuel or diesel. Disclosed herein are suitable alternative waxes to petroleum wax for use as sizing agents in producing engineered wood composites.

Abstract: Thermosetting adhesive compositions for use in e.g., particleboard or fiberboard, wherein the compositions comprise a blend of a protein-based component and a polymeric quaternary amine cure accelerant, can provide the fast tack-building and curing, as well as ultimately good bonding characteristics normally associated with synthetic resin compositions. Preferably, the polymeric quaternary amine cure accelerant is the reaction product of a polyamidoamine and epichlorohydrin.

Abstract: A method for preparing an overlaid composite product comprises treating a web comprising a functional barrier on one face of the web with a binding agent; placing the treated web directly adjacent an unconsolidated substrate wherein the unconsolidated substrate comprises an uncured first resin; and concurrently consolidating the unconsolidated substrate and curing the binding agent and first resin thereby bonding the web to the substrate without addition of a separate adhesive. An overlaid composite product produced by this method is described. An overlaid composite product can be, e.g., a paper laminated oriented strand board.