The performance of particleboard made from rice husk and coconut husk based on type density and type of raw material / Jonity Philip …[et al.]

The increase in waste production from agricultural waste has contributed to various environmental problems. In Malaysia, agricultural is a main sector industry including rice and coconut production. Coconut husks and rice husks residues generated during the processing, are available in abundant quantities in many parts of the tropics but are often treated as a waste material. This study investigated the performance of particleboard made from rice husk and coconut husk based on density (500kg/m3, 600kg/m3, 700kg/m3) and type of raw material (rice husks, coconut husk and mixing). Material type gave the effect on board properties. For mechanical modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE) and physical properties thickness swelling (TS) and water absorption (WA), there was high significant difference between materials. Material with have fibre structure like coconut husk resulted in higher value of MOR, MOE and internal bond (IB) compared to rice husk and mixture. Even so, in TS testing, mixed sample recorded highest value in percentage after coconut husk and rice husk sample. But in WA, coconut husk samples show more resistant to water compared to others. Density also gave great impact on properties of particleboards. The higher density (700kg/m3) gave more strength in mechanical properties (MOR, MOE and IB) than lower density (500kg/m3 and 600kg/m3) and resulted in more resistant towards water. The developed particle board composites can be used for general purpose requirement, such as panelling, ceilings or furniture.