Recycled waste paper–cement composite panels reinforced with kenaf fibres: durability and mechanical properties

Abstract

There is a growing interest on recycling of waste fibres as an alternative to landfill disposal. The aim of the study was to investigate the durability and mechanical properties of waste paper-cement composite panels reinforced with varying kenaf fibre content (FC, 2-10%). The panels produced were evaluated for properties including modulus of rupture (MOR) and apparent modulus of elasticity (MOE). The resistance of the panels was tested in the field for both termite damage and fungi decay for a period of 24 weeks. Accelerated decay test was also performed on selected samples. The results showed that the mean MOR ranged from 3.17 MPa for samples with 10% FC to 4.84 MPa for samples with 8% FC. The mean MOE ranged from 248 MPa for samples with 10% FC to 1298.1 MPa for samples with 8% FC. Statistical analysis showed that the effect of the fibre content was significant on the properties evaluated (p < 0.05). The study concluded that the optimum fibre content for improving the strength and physical properties of paper-cement composites in a ratio of 1:1 (w/w) using kenaf as reinforcing fibre is 8%. The panels were highly resistant to both termite and fungi attack for the study duration.

Improving the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Mycelium-Based Green Composites Using Paper Waste

“…At the same time, adding paper waste at a sufficient level into a composite material can improve the flexural strength of MBCs. This outcome is consistent with other research findings related to composite material studies that indicated that cellulose fiber reinforcement, particularly when it takes the form of recycled paper fibers, can function as reinforcement in composites [ 27 , 75 , 76 ]. This is because cellulose fibers provide added strength and elasticity, like more conventional reinforcing elements similar to fiberglass or carbon fibers [ 27 ].…”

“…composite material studies that indicated that cellulose fiber reinforcement, particularly when it takes the form of recycled paper fibers, can function as reinforcement in composites [27,75,76]. This is because cellulose fibers provide added strength and elasticity, like more conventional reinforcing elements similar to fiberglass or carbon fibers [27].…”

Characteristics of Mechanical Strength of Hybrid Reinforced Plastic Waste Mixed with Wood Waste

“…The efficiency of the fiber matrix bond decreases with increasing fiber concentration, which is associated with a decrease in mechanical characteristics. Inadequate interfacial bonding hinders effective load transmission, which leads to rapid breakdown [48].…”

Properties of Jute Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites – A Review

“…Based on their source, plant fibres were classified into: bast or stem fibres are obtained from the stalk of various dicotyledonous plants such as banana, jute, flax, ramie, kenaf, hemp etc; leaf fibres also referred to as hard fibres, extracted from the leaves of monocotyledonous plants like sisal, pineapple leaf etc; seed fibres derived from the seeds of plants includes cotton, kapok, oil palm, coir, etc (Mwaikambo, 2006). Several researchers determined the mechanical properties, water absorption, porosity and thermal analysis of the concrete casted using the plant fibres (Wafa, 2019;Arsene et al 2013;Amiandamhen, 2020). Among these plant fibres, Jute (Corchorus Capsularis), is a common vegetable fibre exhibit better mechanical properties and used in various industries for the production of new consumer goods (Sudhir et al 2011).…”