Mechanical performance and Taguchi optimization of kenaf fiber/cement-paperboard composite for interior application

Demand for particleboards keeps increasing and as such more trees are fell for its production, engendering deforestation. For the purpose of reducing falling of trees, this study, focused on recycling of waste paper in the development of paperboard as alternative to particleboards used for furniture and interior household applications. Kenaf fiber (KF) was blended at varying proportions of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 wt.% with 20 wt.% constant cement and 20 wt.% constant coconut shell powder while the remaining was paper pulp. Board specimen developed were cured for 14, 28, and 90 days and mechanical properties were examined. Results obtained showed that fiber dosage improved bond strength and screw holding strengths as compared with the control mix. Similarly, modulus of rupture was enhanced with KF loading as compared with control mix while 1 to 3 wt.% KF spawned enhancement of modulus of elasticity. However, 4 and 5 wt.% KF led to a reduction in the modulus. Infusion of the fiber enhanced tensile strength from 1 to 3 wt.% content. 14-day and 28-day curing periods were observed to improve properties while the 90-day curing period is detrimental to all properties. Optimization via signal-to-noise ratio revealed an optimum mix of 2 wt.% obtained for fiber and an optimum curing duration of 28 days.

     

Recycling of synthetic waste wig fiber in the production of cement-adobe for building envelope: physio-hydric properties

Environmental Science and Pollution Research - Waste wigs are often disposed off in their volume on landfills, thus constituting a nuisance to the environment. Recycling these wigs in masonry...     

Piscicidal potential of mesocarp of neem plant (Azadirachta indica L.) fruit on hybrid, "Heteroclarias"

The piscicidal potential of water-extract mesocarp of Azadirachta indica (L) was studied in static bioassay experiment with continuous aeration to determine its acute toxicity The mortality rate and opercular ventilation under laboratory conditions over 96 hr exposure were monitored. The 96 hrLC50 was 81.28 mgl(-1) while the threshold value was 21.13 mgl(-1). The fish exhibited respiratory distress (such as gasping air), loss of appetite, loss of balance and erratic swimming prior to mortality.     

Reuse of walnut shell waste in the development of fired ceramic bricks

Environmental Science and Pollution Research - The development of agricultural waste–doped fired bricks is an important step toward achieving lightweight eco-efficient bricks with improved...