A new recycling process makes it possible to reuse MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) on an industrial scale. Developed through a collaboration between Unilin and GP Groot Recycling, the technology allows used MDF panels to be processed into fibres that can be applied in the production of new MDF boards. MDF is widely used in interior construction, furniture manufacturing and joinery, but until now has largely been excluded from high-quality recycling streams.

Used MDF from renovation and demolition projects is typically incinerated. With this new approach, the material can be collected separately and returned to the production cycle. Unilin has indicated that the process is designed to handle up to 70,000 tonnes of MDF fibres per year.

Preserving Fibre Quality

Recycling MDF has long been considered technically challenging due to the need to preserve fibre quality. Conventional mechanical processing methods damage the fibres, making them unsuitable for reuse in new boards. The newly developed process separates MDF into reusable fibres while maintaining the properties required for panel production.

According to Unilin, up to 25% recycled fibres can be incorporated into newly produced MDF panels. These fibres are used alongside virgin material in the manufacture of standard MDF boards intended for applications such as furniture, cabinetry and interior fit-outs.

Material Efficiency and Emissions Reduction

Reintroducing used MDF into the production cycle reduces the demand for virgin wood. In addition, the carbon stored in the wood fibres remains contained within the material for a longer period. This contributes to lower material-related emissions compared to incineration, supporting resource efficiency objectives within the building and interiors sectors.

The recycling technology is made available to other manufacturers through licensing, allowing broader adoption within the wood-based panel industry.

Implications for Interior Architecture and Product Design

For architects, interior designers and product designers, the availability of MDF with recycled content provides an additional option when specifying panel materials. While the material properties remain comparable to conventional MDF, the recycled content may support project requirements related to circularity or environmental performance.

GP Groot Recycling is responsible for collecting and processing used MDF, particularly from construction and renovation projects. By separating MDF from mixed waste streams, the material can be reused rather than disposed of through energy recovery.

Towards a Circular MDF Chain

The collaboration between Unilin and GP Groot Recycling illustrates how technological developments can enable new recycling pathways for established materials. By extending the functional lifespan of wood fibres, MDF can increasingly be considered within circular material strategies for interior and furniture applications.

Source & photo: GP Groot Recycling