Abstract:
The conversion of biomass waste resources into value-added products is gaining
popularity on a wide range all over the world. Thermal insulation materials derived
from agricultural and aquatic waste are becoming more attractive in the building
industry to reduce heat loss or gain through the house envelope because of their
sustainability and lower environmental impact. This study compared the effect of
compaction during preparation on the physical, mechanical, and thermal
characteristics of a composite material made from water hyacinth and rice. The
primary raw materials used for the production of composite materials are the aquatic
floating weed water hyacinth, rice straw, and a suitable binder. The pre-treatment of
raw water hyacinth includes drying, crushing, and grinding. Dried rice straw
preferably of 1 cm length is used. The raw materials are mixed to obtain a
homogeneous mixture in the required proportions. Then, blended the binder into the
homogeneous mixture and mixed thoroughly. Prepared a mould of standard
dimensions. Poured the mixture into the mould and compacted the mould by applying
a constant load. Repeated the procedure for various weight ratios of water hyacinth
and rice straw. Finally, prepared thermal insulation materials with different
compaction loads. Conducted experimental investigations to determine the properties
such as; apparent density, porosity, water absorption, flexural strength, compressive
strength, and thermal conductivity. Then compared the optimal properties for the
studied insulation materials with that of the commercially available conventional
insulations and other bio based insulation materials.
