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Water Duration & Cabinets – Phase II: Testing & Results

William Yanko, PhD, PE

To study the effects of water on wood-based composite cabinetry (particleboard), U. S. Forensic engineers, under the direction of William Yanko, PhD, PE, conducted an intricate experimental test program. Visit USF Research: Phase I to learn about the initial stages of the study.

Testing Program

The testing program had a cycle time of 70 total days. The flow rates were calibrated to 15-25 drips per minute. Observations were continuous and the data collection was based on scheduled intervals.

Observation Schedule

Water Delivery onto the Cabinet Shelf

Test Program Observations: Day 2

Distortion of veneer materials

Discoloration of back panel

No corrosion on door hinges

Swelling of kick plate and vertical panels

Test Program Observations: Day 7

Significant swelling; no material “break apart”

No visible mold growth beneath the cabinet

Test Program Observations: Day 14

Visible mold growth beneath the cabinet

Visible mold growth on the drywall

Test Program Observations: Day 21

Vertical deflection of shelf (3/16”) and veneer loss (for cabinet filled with 1” of water; none otherwise)

No break-apart of particleboard

Test Program Observations: Day 63

Vertical deflection of shelf (2.25”) and veneer loss (for cabinet filled with 1” of water; none otherwise)

Significant mold growth underneath

Mold growth in adjacent cabinets

Mold growth on wall behind the cabinets

No corrosion of door hinges

No break-apart of particleboard

General Observations

Swelling of particleboard after 1 day
Fungal growth under cabinets at 14 days
Bowing (3/16”) of cabinet shelf at 21 days (for cabinet filled with 1” of water; none otherwise)
Minor corrosion of fasteners at 70 days
No corrosion of door hinges at 70 days

Test Program Summary

Test Program Summary