NOT a form of wood commonly used in aircraft construction?

• A. Solid wood
• B. Laminated wood
• C. Plywood
• D. Particleboard

Answer: (D)

Wood forms used in aircraft are chosen for high strength-to-weight, stiffness, and dimensional stability. Solid wood provides strong, lightweight members like spars and ribs in smaller or vintage aircraft. Laminated wood combines multiple layers to create longer, more stable members that resist bending and twisting. Plywood uses thin veneers laid in cross-pabrer to give excellent shear strength and form stability for skin and structural assemblies.

Particleboard, on the other hand, is made from wood particles bonded with resin and pressed into panels. It lacks the directional strength and moisture resistance needed for aircraft loads, and it tends to swell, delaminate, and lose fastener holding under humidity and stress. It also isn’t as stiff or durable as the other wood forms used in airframes. Because of these weaknesses, particleboard is not a form of wood commonly used in aircraft construction.