Abstract: Kenaf(Hibiscus cannabinus) is a warm weather and fast growing fiber crop, which is often used in paper making. In this study, single-and three-layer kenaf core particleboards (KPB) were made with polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI, 3%) and phenol formaldehyde (PF,6%) resins. Density levels were specified as 0. 25,0. 40,0. 55,0. 70 and 0. 85 g/cm3. Bending modulus (MOE), bending strength (MOR), internal bond (IB) strength, thickness swelling (TS), linear expansion (LE),and vertical density profile (VDP) were assessed. The data were compared with properties specified in ANSI/A 208. 1 for woodbased particleboard (WPB). It was shown that kenaf core could be made into standard-satisfied particleboards. Density and resin content were two primary factors deciding the performances of KPB. KPB denser than O. 70 g/cm3 and with 6% PF met the standard specifications. KPB with 3% pMDI failed to achieve the standard unless slightly higher resin content and/or density were used. TS and LE of single-layer KPB decreased but TS rate increased with increased density. Single-layer KPB had a dissymmetric structure in thickness direction. Threelayer construction improved MOE, MOR and IB strengths,and effectively avoided the unbalanced structure of sing-layer KPB in thickness direction. KPB with a 5 : 5 surface-to-core ratio had the best comprehensive performances.