AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECT OF COMPACTION ON THE PERFORMANCE OF COMPOSITE MATERIAL MADE FROM WATER HYACINTH AND RICE STRAW

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.