OSB (Oriented Strand Board) boards are made from thin, long wood strands arranged in three overlapping layers with alternating orientation – the outer layers are aligned longitudinally, while the inner layer is transverse. These are bonded together by hot pressing using a mixture of wax and synthetic resins. Thanks to this innovative structure, OSB boards stand out through high strength and excellent mechanical performance, making them ideal for construction applications.

OSB boards are classified based on their intended use and operating conditions:

• OSB1 – used for general applications without a structural role
• OSB2 – suitable for load-bearing structures in dry environments
• OSB3 – load-bearing boards, usable in humid environments
• OSB4 – high-strength boards designed for use in high-moisture conditions

The most commonly used in construction are OSB3 boards, due to their load-bearing capacity and moisture resistance. These are also integrated into the structure of SIP panels.

• Interior structural elements – thicknesses ranging from 8 mm to 25 mm, adapted to moisture conditions
• Floor sheathing – 12 mm boards with tongue and groove joints
• Roof sheathing – available in 12 mm, 15 mm, and 18 mm thicknesses, with or without tongue and groove joints
• Structural frame sheathing – 12 mm boards, without tongue and groove

Due to their durability and versatility, OSB boards are an efficient construction solution, offering an optimal balance between cost, performance, and sustainability.

Drying the wood in specialized chambers and the planing process are fundamental steps for obtaining a durable and resilient construction material. These processes contribute to wood stabilization, protection against environmental factors, and improved mechanical properties.

The wood undergoes thermal treatment in a specialized dryer where the temperature reaches 75°C. This process replaces the traditional air-drying method, efficiently eliminating excess moisture, microorganisms, and pests.

Wood intended for construction must have a reduced moisture content to prevent future shrinkage and deformation. Dried wood occupies less volume than fresh wood, ensuring superior structural stability.

Engineering specialists highlight that wood can experience radial shrinkage of up to 8%, depending on the species. This variation can affect the final dimensions of the material, having a direct impact on construction precision.

The controlled drying process allows for quickly reaching the ideal moisture level, between 7–13%, avoiding the risks associated with high moisture content, such as mold growth, insect infestations, and deterioration of the indoor microclimate.

After complete drying, the wood undergoes planing, eliminating imperfections and roughness to obtain a smooth and uniform surface.

Smoothing the wood not only improves its aesthetic appearance but also enhances its resistance to moisture, fire, and insect attacks. This process removes biological layers that could serve as food for various organisms.

• Dimensional stability – reduces the risk of shrinkage and deformation
• Increased strength – denser and more durable material
• Protection against environmental factors – wood becomes more resistant to moisture, fungi, and insects
• Superior quality – smooth surfaces free of imperfections

In conclusion, the wood drying and planing process is essential for obtaining a durable, stable, and resilient construction material, ensuring excellent performance in both structural and decorative applications.

Drying wood in specialized chambers and the planing process are fundamental steps in obtaining a durable and resistant construction material. These processes contribute to stabilizing the wood, protecting it from environmental factors, and improving its mechanical properties.

Expanded polystyrene boards comply with standard EN 13163:2012+A1:2015, which sets the requirements for products made from this material, with or without coatings, used for the thermal insulation of buildings. These products can be manufactured as boards or rolls.

The standard defines product characteristics and includes the procedures necessary for testing, conformity assessment, marking, and labeling. Expanded polystyrene boards can also be used for sound and thermal insulation in composite panels, although the performance of systems that include them is not covered by this standard.

This standard does not specify classes or minimum levels for specific product properties, as these are determined by regulations or standards applicable to each use. Products with a declared thermal resistance below 0.25 m²K/W or with a declared thermal conductivity at 10°C above 0.060 W/(m·K) are not included in this standard.

Expanded polystyrene boards are manufactured through a foaming process and are intended for thermal insulation in applications requiring medium mechanical strength. The standard dimensions of the boards are 1000 x 500 mm, and the finish may be with smooth or overlapping edges.

The material is obtained by expanding spherical beads in a mold, where heat and pressure fuse them. Although each bead has a closed-cell structure, significant open spaces remain between them. The resulting EPS blocks are cut into sheets or special shapes using computer-controlled systems.

The manufacturing process involves the use of a blowing agent that expands the beads, creating thousands of air-filled cells, which contribute to its insulating properties. EPS is composed of organic elements such as carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, contains no chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), and can be recycled at various stages of its life cycle.