Optimized Compression Molding Machine for Biocomposite Production from Agricultural Waste

The Philippines faces ongoing challenges in managing agricultural waste, often disposed of through open burning or landfill, leading to pollution. Converting this waste into valuable materials using a compression molding machine can mitigate environmental harm and create economic opportunities in agriculture. This study explores bio-based composite development and effective agri-waste recycling. It aims to integrate agricultural waste, such as rice straw, coconut husk, and corn starch, into biocomposites using a modified machine with shredding, molding, and compressing capabilities. The year-long project involved material exploration, machine fabrication, and biocomposite testing. A two-level factorial experimental design revealed that temperature and binder percentage significantly affect material properties, with higher binder percentages and lower temperatures enhancing mechanical strength