Description

Born as an intelligent evolution of chipboard and an economical alternative to phenolic plywood, OSB makes use of small-diameter or fast-growing timber, valorising forest raw material 100%.

01Oriented strand structure

The panel's strength does not come from a confused timber mass, but from the exact geometry of the strands (flat flakes up to 150 mm long). In the two outer layers, the strands are oriented parallel to the long side of the panel, while in the inner core they are arranged perpendicularly. Pressed at high temperature with polyurethane (PMDI) or melamine (MUF) resins, they form a non-deformable board highly resistant to bending and shear.

02Reference classes and vapour control

Standard EN 300 classifies OSB from 1 to 4 according to mechanical strength and tolerated humidity. In construction, almost exclusively OSB/3 (structural for humid environments) is used. Thanks to the presence of moisture-resistant thermosetting glues, the panel physiologically acts as a natural vapour retarder (mu between 150 and 300).

Technical identity

Standards

European and international references applicable.

EN 300EN 13986Eurocodice 5

Physical properties

Bending modulus (major axis)~3.500 MPa
Bending modulus (minor axis)~1.400 MPa
Thermal conductivity0.13 W/mK
Vapour permeability (mu)150 - 300

Usage environment

Construction almost exclusively uses OSB/3 (structural in humid environments). Install panels with open joints (3 mm) on studs to prevent swelling.

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