Physico-mechanical behaviour of Oil Palm Broom Fibres (OPBF) as eco-friendly building material

Abstract

Until recently, the rib of the leaflets of the oil palm tree was only used for making brooms due to its stiffness and durability. However, the mechanical properties of this fibre are unknown. Due to the geometrical variation of the cross-section of the fibres along their length, this study divided them into 4-categories. The result of this study reveals that the fibres have a specific gravity between 0.45-0.84 and diameter varying between 0.20 mm (at the tail) and 4.00 mm (at the cap). Maximum tensile strength of 900 MPa was recorded.Scanning electron microscopy of fibre cross-sections revealed graded cavities concentrated at the core but a densely packed cortex. This radial and longitudinal density gradient is responsible for the phenomenon whereby the fibres are stiffer in bending but possess reduced tensile strength towards the cap. Further investigations carried out on the fibres include water absorption, chemical composition and thermogravimetric analysis. The fibre is proposed for use as natural-fibre reinforcement in cement and polymeric composites as it is cheap, and void of high carbon footprints associated with the use of conventional reinforcement materials in construction.

Physico-chemical and mechanical characterization of bambusa vulgaris fibers from Cameroon

“…Similar observations have been made by Momoh et al during the study of the physico-mechanical behaviour of Oil Palm Broom Fibres. 49…”

Bond Behaviour of Treated Natural Fibre in Concrete

“…The ribs from the palm leaflets, in other words, oil palm broom fibres (OPBF), have gained research interests in the past few years as a result of their impressive mechanical properties [8]. The fibres have an average specific gravity of 840kg/m 3 and tensile strength of 389.5MPa at a moisture content of 10% [9] [10].…”

“…The ribs from the palm leaflets, in other words, oil palm broom fibres (OPBF), have gained research interests in the past few years as a result of their impressive mechanical properties [8]. The fibres have an average specific gravity of 840kg/m 3 and tensile strength of 389.5MPa at a moisture content of 10% [9] [10]. Like bamboo, its strength/weight ratio is over 500% of that of steel, it possesses good resistance to rot, and has a lower water absorption unlike other fibres of vegetable origin.…”