ABSTRACT The use of nanoparticles appears to be a feasible option for improving the quality of a range of wood-based products. Studies show that they can improve both the physical and mechanical properties of wood and wood-based products. This preliminary study aimed to analyze the influence of SiO2 nanoparticles on the physical and mechanical properties of wood particleboard. To this end that, panels were produced without the addition of SiO2 nanoparticles and with the addition of 4% by mass of the urea formaldehyde adhesive used for its production. The results showed that panels produced with the nanoparticles 42% reduction in thickness swelling of the panel. Therefore, the dimensional stability of the panels without decreasing mechanical properties, even when used in small proportions.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the energetic potential achieved by the application of phyto-regulators to sweet sorghum cultivars. A randomized complete block design was used. Experiments were conducted using two sweet sorghum cultivars (BRS 508 and BRS 509), fourphyto-regulators (ethephon, ethyl-trinexapac, glyphosate, and sulfometuron-methyl), and a control; four replicates were performed 70 days after sowing, at the beginning of the flowering phase of the plants, with the aid of a CO2-pressurized coastal sprayer. The plants were harvested after 40 days, with the stems being cleared at the height of the apical bud, and were subjected to grinding for the extraction of broth. The following analyses were carried out: chemical (total extractives, lignin, and holocellulose contents), proximate (volatile matter, fixed carbon, and ash contents), and energetic (higher heating value). Multiple comparison (Tukey) and linear correlation (Pearson) analyses were carried out at a 5% significance level. The phyto-regulators positively and significantly influenced the chemical attributes and contents of lignin and fixed carbon. It was concluded that glyphosate, sulfometuron-methyl, and ethephon enhanced the biomass/bioenergy potential of sweet sorghum cultivars.