Urgel, John Vincent M. creator Author Pango, Ma. Lyna R. Author Plazo, John Matthew G. Author Sister, Shena Mie S. Author Tiglao, Julianne Nicole M. Author Franco, Cenri Anrie R. Author text Manila Technological University of the Philippines, 2026 monographic eng

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ix, 96 pages: 29cm. This capstone study investigates the effects of nipa palm frond fibers (NPFF) as reinforcement in coconut leaf sheath (CLS)–low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composite boards, addressing three critical gaps: CLS-LDPE boards not passing modulus of rupture (MoR) standard, the absence of thermal conductivity data for natural fiber-thermoplastic composites, and the environmental impacts of agro-waste disposal. Five mix designs were developed with a fixed 70:30 LDPE:CLS ratio and varying NPFF content (0%, 1%, 3%, 5%, and 7%) after alkali treatment (5% NaOH) to a uniform 15 mm length. Boards were produced via twin-screw extrusion, two-roll milling, and compression molding. Physical (density, water absorption, thickness swelling), mechanical (MoR, internal bond, impact strength), and thermal properties (thermal conductivity) were evaluated following ASTM D1037, D790, D5420, and C518, and compared with PNS ISO 16893:2017 (P-GP MR2) standards. Results show that all mixes passed the required limits for water absorption (<14%), thickness swelling (<12%), and density variation (<±10%). MoR increased from 12.94 MPa (M1, 0% NPFF) to 21.60 MPa (M4, 5% NPFF), exceeding the 13 MPa requirement. Thermal conductivity (0.0954–0.1114 W/m·K) was comparable to commercial PVC. Optimal reinforcement was at 5% NPFF (M4), with 1% NPFF (M2) as an economical alternative. The study concludes that NPFF-reinforced CLS-LDPE boards meet the P-GP MR2 standard for tropical humid conditions, offering viable ceiling/wall applications. This work benefits local nipa farmers in Pamplona, Cagayan, and aligns with the TUP research agenda on “Advanced Industrial and Energy Technologies” and on UN-SDGs 9, 11, and 12: on sustainable industrialization, resilient communities, and responsible consumption. Keywords: Nipa Palm Frond Fibers, Coconut Leaf Sheath, Low-Density Polyethylene, Composite Board , Natural Fiber -Reinforced Composite Board John Vincent M. Urgel, Ma. Lyna R. Pango, John Matthew G. Plazo, Shena Mie S. Sister, Julian Nicole M. Tiglao, Cenri Anrei R. Franco..- Bachelor's Thesis College of Industrial Technology..- Bachelor of Engineering Technology Major in Construction Technology: Technological University of the Philippines, 2026. Includes bibliographic references and index. Construction Technology Nipa Palm Frond Fibers Coconut Leaf Sheath BTH TH 870 U74 2026 260617 20260617173418.0 English