Can particle board be refurbished?

You could try re-staining the desk and putting on at least two coats of varathane.

I put some peel and stick 12x12 vinyl ($1. each) floor tiles on the top of an old dresser that had the same problem. Fill any larger holes or gouges first with any product that dries hard, (space or wood filler) and give it a light sanding so you are working with a smooth surface. You could also use sheet vinyl but it's a bit harder to apply. my dresser top looks great, and is resistant to spills and stains.

Most particle board can be refurbished if the surface is prepared correctly. Sanded (if it is a slick finish) then a good quality primer and then paint. Check with your local paint store or dept. to get the right type for your project. One of the 4 inch "rag type" rollers (looks like white cotton pompoms) will help with a smooth finish. If the top does not finish out well with paint... cover with wallpaper, a map, fabric, or photos... then cover with a glass top cut to size or a new wood top.

If it still has its melamine skin you can paint it. If it is MDF, not the stringy, chippy particle board, and the melamine veneer is gone, you can prime it with a high-adhesion primer, then paint.

http://www.hometalk.com/search/posts?filter=painting%20laminate%20cabinets

Add a new top and paint!

I used a enamel glass spray paint on a particle board bookshelf I was given for my youngest daughter. It has lasted over 6 years with her moving it all the time, and constantly over-stacking it with books, movies, games, and dishes (much to my dismay!)

It probably has a paper laminate it won't stain if the appearance is ok you can put a clear coat on it, but if it's very bad you can sand it lightly fill any holes sand again and spray paint it any color you like