Eco-friendly particleboard production from coconut waste valorization

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Sustainable Engineering
• Agricultural Waste Valorization

Background:

• Agro-industrial waste reuse mitigates environmental impact and enables product development.
• Particleboard production often relies on wood resources, with potential for incorporating alternative materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the physical and mechanical properties of particleboard panels.
• To investigate the incorporation of coconut fiber (Cocos nucifera L.) waste into Eucalyptus wood particleboards.

Main Methods:

• Particleboard panels were produced using Eucalyptus wood and varying proportions of coconut fiber.
• Physical properties (density, water absorption, thickness swelling) were assessed.
• Mechanical properties (static bending, internal bond resistance) were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Panels reinforced with coconut fiber exhibited higher density and improved dimensional stability.
• Coconut fiber addition led to significantly lower water absorption.
• Static bending resistance and internal bond resistance showed substantial increases.

Conclusions:

• Coconut fiber incorporation enhances particleboard properties, making them suitable for civil construction and furniture.
• This research demonstrates the potential of utilizing agro-industrial residues for manufacturing durable composite materials.
• The study highlights a sustainable approach to waste valorization in material production.