Utilization of shredded coconut bark as raw materials in cement bonded particle board/
Jessa May F. Camacho, Ma. Rhealyn Rose Ann C. Inoy, Ronald L. Militante, Eaily Olanda and Jhon Kirby A. Regio
- Technological University of the Philippines, Manila. 2025
- xi, 92 pages. 29cm
Bachelor's thesis
College of Industrial Technology.--
Includes bibliographic references and index.
The researcher aims to provide technical solutions to address the shortages of raw wood materials in the construction sector, the increasing demand for these materials, and the negative impact of formaldehyde resin on human health. This study evaluates the performance of cement-bonded particle boards made with three different mix ratios of cement and coconut bark (75:25, 80:20, 85:15) by PNS ISO 16893-2017. The boards were produced using a hot press machine at room temperatures of 68-74°F over 24 hours and then cured for 28 days. They underwent physical tests (density, water absorption, thickness
swelling) and mechanical tests (Modulus of Rupture, face screw withdrawal) at the DOST- FPRDI laboratory in UP Los Baņos. Results showed that the 75:25 mix ratio achieved
acceptable levels for thickness swelling and water absorption; however, its Modulus of Rupture and face screw holding values fell short for load-bearing applications. In contrast, the mixes with lower cement ratios (85:15 and 80:20) exhibited inadequate structural integrity and fractured during preparation. While all ratios demonstrated good density and moisture resistance, they were deemed suitable only for non-load-bearing applications, such as lightweight, non-structural, and adhesive-bonded uses. The prototype was evaluated by a panel of 30 assessors, which included five certified civil engineers, five hardware store owners, and 20 construction technology students. Using the TUP evaluation instrument, the prototype achieved an overall rating of 4.14, described qualitatively as "Very acceptable" regarding functionality, aesthetics, economics, workability, safety, and efficiency. The evaluators concluded that the prototype holds significant potential for the construction industry and comes highly recommended. Keywords: coconut bark, raw materials, PNS 16893:2017, cement bonded particle board.