Physical, mechanical and thermal properties of composite board based on palm frond fibers and feather clam shells

Research on natural composite boards with polyester has been completed.In this study, composite boards were fabricated using palm frond fiber (PFF) and feather clam shell (FCS) combined with polyester.The mass ratios (%) of PFF:FCS:polyester investigated were 55:20:25, 45:30:25, 35:40:25, 25:50:25, and 15:60:25.The composite board manufacturing process involved pressing for 20 minutes at a pressure of 30 kg/m and a temperature of 70 C.Physical parameters observed included density, porosity, and water absorption, while mechanical properties assessed comprised compressive strength, impact resistance, tensile strength, and flexural strength.Additionally, microstructural analysis was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermal properties were evaluated through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).The results indicated that the optimum composition of 15% PFF, 60% FCS, and 25% polyester (Sample 5) produced composite boards with a density of 1.511 g/cm and a DSC value of 55.03 mW.The mechanical properties at this composition showed a compressive strength of 0.133 kgf/mm, a tensile strength of 0.032 kgf/mm, and an impact resistance of 1.6 J/ mm.SEM analysis revealed that the composite board with the 15:60:25 ratio (Sample 5) exhibited the highest distribution and homogeneity of its components.Compared to conventional wood-based materials, the composite boards demonstrated superior strength-to-weight ratios, resistance to water absorption, and thermal stability, making them highly durable and cost-effective.Additionally, the use of PFF and FCS provides a sustainable alternative by utilizing agricultural and marine waste, contributing to environmental conservation.According to JIS A 5905:2003 standards, the fabricated composite board from PFF and FCS combined with polyester in this study are categorized as "Hard Boards," making them a viable alternative to wood for furniture applications such as tables and chairs.