COCONUT FIBER AND DISSOLVED STYROFOAM AS FIBERBOARD

ENRIQUETA F. DAIGDIGAN
PATRICK ROLAND M. MATUTINA
CARL KRESS Q. SUPNET

JUNE 2021
COCONUT FIBER AND DISSOLVED STYROFOAM AS FIBERBOARD

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A Thesis Presented to the

Faculty of the College of Engineering
Liceo de Cagayan University
Cagayan de Oro City

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In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

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ENRIQUETA F. DAIGDIGAN
PATRICK ROLAND M. MATUTINA
CARL KRESS Q. SUPNET

JUNE 2021
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page iii

APPROVAL SHEET

This thesis entitled, “COCONUT FIBER AND DISSOLVED STYROFOAM AS

FIBERBOARD”, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of
Science in Civil Engineering by ENRIQUETA F. DAIGDIGAN, PATRICK ROLAND
M. MATUTINA, and CARL KRESS Q. SUPNET has been examined, accepted and
recommended for Oral Examination.

ENGR. JANSEN CARLO F. ODRON

Adviser

PANEL OF EXAMINERS

Approved by the committee on Oral Examination with the grade of

DR. ALICE G. COMAHIG

Chairman

DR. NENITA C. ITAAS-PRADO ENGR. ANDREW D. CODILLA

Member Member

Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING.

Date of Proposal Defense June 11, 2021.

DR. ALICE G. COMAHIG

Dean, College of Engineering
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

COVER PAGE i

TITLE PAGE ii

APPROVAL SHEET iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS iv

LIST OF TABLES vi

Chapter

1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Introduction 1

Theoretical and Conceptual Framework 4

Statement of the Problem 5

Hypothesis 7

Objectives of the Study 8

Scope and Delimitations of the Study 9

Significance of the Study 10

Definition of Terms 10

2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

Coconut Fiber 12

Dissolving Styrofoam from Acetone 14

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Styrofoam 14

Tensile Strength 16

Water Absorption 17

Thickness Swelling 19

Density 19

Fiberboard 20

Standards 21

Other Studies 22

3 METHODOLOGY

Research Setting 24

Research Design 24

Respondents and Sampling Procedure 24

Research Instruments 25

Validity and Reliability of the Instruments 25

Data Gathering Procedure 26

Statistical Techniques 26

REFERENCES 29

APPENDICES
A. Curriculum Vitae 32
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LIST OF TABLES

TABLE TITLE PAGE

1 Data on Tensile Strength 27
2 Data on Water Absorption 27
3 Data on Thickness Swelling 28
4 Data on Density 28
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Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Introduction

Coir or coconut fiber is the fibrous layer found between a coconut's hard interior shell

and its outer cover, it is widely used in products such as floor mats, doormats, brushes and

mattresses. The Republic of the Philippines belonging on the third-world country in Asia-

Pacific is now the world’s second largest coconut product producer and exporter after

Indonesia according to an article of Food and Fertilizer Technology Center for Asian and

Pacific Region (FFTC-AP) (2019). To take pride, based on the Philippine Statistics Authority

(PSA) reported that about 3.6 million hectares of coconut trees are planted all over the

country, dominating the land in 68 out of 81 total provinces that are located here in the

Philippines. the researchers are aiming to utilize the uses of coconut husk fibers to produce a

cheaper, eco-friendly and convenient yet powerful fiber board.

According to an article on Canopy International (2013) the major coconut wastes

include coconut shell (12%), coconut husks (35%) coconut coir dust and coconut fronds. In

2010, the total coconut residues amounted to 21.34 M metric tons (mt). Its coconut husk

recorded breakdown of waste biomass by region in the Philippines in 2010-2011 (in metric

tons) only in region 10 is reaching 585,135.79 mt.

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Styrofoam is the trade name for polystyrene foam, a product used for housing

insulation. Polystyrene is a petroleum-based plastic made from the styrene monomer. It is

light weight, consisting of about 95% air. It has good insulation properties and is used in

products such as cups to keep beverages hot, to packing material to keep products safe while

shipping. But due to its commonality, polystyrene has contaminated and effected both the

environment and our health. When thrown away as trash, polystyrene cannot biodegrade or

breakdown via other means, remaining in the environment for thousands of years, according

to Miller (2009).

Lightweight, versatile and cheap, this production of Styrofoam increased demand for

foam packaging that resulted problem of waste disposal along dumpsites. Remains of

Styrofoam are visible to waste streams and one of the reasons why clogging is rampant along

drainages here in the Philippines specially that we are experiencing flooding due to clogged

drainages. In fact, that Styrofoam has polystyrene that is comprised of petroleum, it does

have properties that make it technically recyclable. But EPS is also comprised of more than

90% air, which makes it lightweight and bulky. Because of this, recycling EPS is only

efficient when it can be ground and then compacted into a denser shape according to

Communities for Recycling (2019).

On the other hand, the Philippines is one of the world’s worst offenders on marine

plastic pollution as stated by Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives [GAIA] (2020).
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 3

Economic growth, combined with enhanced production and consumption, is leading to

higher waste generation in Philippines. The country’s urban waste collection services cover a

range of 80% to 100% of the area, while the ranges are lower from 40% to 85% at the

national level. In squatter areas, waste is sometimes to be collected and it leads to illegal

dumping according to Sea Circular (2020).

Moreover, waste thrown into waterways contributes to frequent flooding in the Metro

region. This eventually leaks to the marine environment and have negative impacts on

revenue-generating nature-based tourism, as well as on the fishing industry. Fishermen have

commented that plastics are smothering coral reefs, resulting in lower fish yields and

ecosystem-wide impacts. Socio-economic trends also indicate an annual population growth

rate of 1.5%, forecast to grow to a 125.4 million people in 2030, with more than 60% living

along the country’s coastline. The confluence of a growing population, rising incomes and

consumption, inadequate infrastructure, and weak regulations combine to put the Philippines

high on the list of nations with major waste leakage and plastic pollution problems based

from Sea Circular (2020).

To alleviate the problem, the researchers have decided to use Styrofoam as a raw

source for fiberboard production technology which will also help in the demand of

fiberboards. The researchers would also use coconut fiber as one of the raw materials in
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 4

producing the fiberboard and test the board for tensile strength, water absorption, thickness

swelling and density.

Theoretical and Conceptual Framework

This study is based on the concept of tensile strength, water absorption, thickness

swelling, and density test of a fiberboard.

The tensile strength is the breaking strength of a material when applying a force

capable of breaking multiple strands of the material concurrently at a consistent rate of

extension or load. The sample will be anchored at both ends and put on the machine. Both

tensioned ends of the unit were extended until it collapsed as it was pumped manually.

Splitting was the cause of failure. The tensile strength was calculated using the formula:

Wt
δt =
b×t

Where, δt is the Tensile stress (N/mm²), Wt is the Failure tensile load (N), b is the

Breadth of the specimen (mm) and t is the thickness of the specimen (mm).

The water absorption and thickness swell, are both assessed using the water soak

method for 24 hours, are commonly used as the key indicators of a wood composite panel's

water-resistant capacity. The samples will be anchored where it will be soaked for two hours

at room temperature, then the weight of each is measured. The water absorption percentage

should not exceed 40 %. A higher absorption value will lower the strength of the board

considerably. After 24 h of submersion in distilled water at 20 ± 1°C, the specimen is

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weighed after the excess water drains off. The thickness is measured at the same four points

and the average is obtained. The following calculations can then be made:

Wf −Wi
(a) Water absorption (%)= × 100
Wi

Where, Wf is the final weight and Wi is the initial weight.

tw−ti
(b) Thickness swelling ( % ) = ×100
ti

Where, Tw is the wet thickness and Ti is the initial thickness.

The density of a composite is an essential measure of its performance. It has a

significant impact on the material's qualities. The complete thickness of the composite is used

to determine the specimen's density. The weight is measured with a precision of not less than

0.2 percent, and the dimensions are measured with a precision of not less than 0.3 percent.

The oven dry weight, which is acquired after drying a specimen at 1032°C until constant

weight is reached, is used to determine the density of wood-based composites. The following

formula is used to compute the density:

Density
( kgm )= Lwtf
3

Where, f is the ovendry weight (kg), L is the length of sample, w is the width, and t is

the thickness of the sample.

INDEPENDENT DEPENDENT

Tensile test
Mixture ratios of coconut Water absorption test
fiber and dissolved Thickness swelling test
styrofoam; 1:1, 1:2, and 2;1. Density test
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Figure 1. Schematic Diagram of the Study

Figure 1 shows the schematic diagram of the study. Mixture ratios of coconut fiber

and dissolved Styrofoam; 1:1, 1:2, and 2:1 are the independent variables. Tensile test, water

absorption test, thickness swelling test and density test are the dependent variables.

Coconut fiber is a characteristic fiber extricated from coconut coir, a result of

coconut-based item. It is a likely material for fiberboard since it contains high cellulose and

lignin which is like wood. Cover less medium thickness fiberboard (MDF) from coconut

fiber was delivered to diminish the utilization of wood and the outflow of manufactured

cements, for example, urea formaldehyde utilizing lignin as common fastener. According to

Puspaningrum et al., (2019).

Fiberboards can be manufactured either wet or dry. Water is used to spread fibers into

a mat, which is subsequently pressed into a board in a wet-forming process. In many cases an

adhesive is not used and the lignin in the fibers serves as the adhesive. Fibers from the refiner

pass via a dryer and blowline, where the adhesive is applied, before being molded into a web

and pressed into a board in the dry process.

Statement of the Problem

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This study aims to produce fiberboard from coconut fiber and dissolved Styrofoam,

specifically it seeks to determine whether,

1. What is the tensile strength of the fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1, 1:2,

2:1. Where: the amount of first ratio is the coconut fiber, second is the Styrofoam?

2. What is the water absorption of fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1, 1:2,

2:1?

3. What is the thickness swelling of fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1, 1:2,

2:1?

4. What is the density of fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2:1?

5. What is the significant difference of the tensile strength between fiberboard

mixtures ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2;1?

6. What is the significant difference of water absorption between fiberboard

mixtures ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2:1?

7. What is the significant difference of thickness swelling between fiberboard

mixtures ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2:1?

8. What is the significant difference of density between fiberboard mixtures ratios

1:1, 1:2, 2:1?

Hypothesis

H01:
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There is no significant difference of tensile strength between fiberboard mixtures

ratio 1:1. 1:2, 2:1.

H02:

There is no significant difference of water absorption between fiberboard mixtures

ratio 1:1. 1:2, 2:1.

H03:

There is no significant difference of thickness swelling between fiberboard mixtures

ratio 1:1. 1:2, 2:1.

H04:

There is no significant difference of density between fiberboard mixtures ratio 1:1.

1:2, 2:1.

Objectives of the Study

The general objective of this study is to sort out the results of coconut fiber and

dissolved Styrofoam as fiberboard. The specific objectives of the study can be stated briefly

as follows.

1. To determine the tensile strength of the fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1,

1:2, 2:1. Where: the amount of first ratio is the coconut fiber, second is the

Styrofoam.
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 9

2. To determine the water absorption of fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1,

1:2, 2:1.

3. To determine the thickness swelling of fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1,

1:2, 2:1.

4. To determine the density of fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2:1.

5. To find the significant difference of the tensile strengths between fiberboard

mixtures ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2;1.

6. To find the significant difference of water absorption between fiberboard mixtures

ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2:1.

7. To find the significant difference of thickness swelling between fiberboard

mixtures ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2:1.

8. To find the significant difference of density between fiberboard mixtures ratios

1:1, 1:2, 2:1.

Scope and Delimitations of the Study

The researchers will be conducting their study at TestLab Engineering and Geotech

Services located at You We Tong Building, Gusa Highway, Cagayan De Oro City for the

tests for tensile strength and water absorption. This research will be having an experimental

test to determine the tensile strength and water absorption of a fiberboard. Thus, the

researchers will produce a total of thirty (45) samples of fiberboard, five (5) samples will be

made from each three (3) different ratios; 1:1, 1:2, and 2:1 of coconut fiber and dissolved
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 10

Styrofoam and each ratio will undergo four (4) different tests. The same samples will be used

for water absorption and thickness swelling test. The dimension for tensile strength test is

500x45 millimeter in length and width and 12 millimeter in thickness and for water

absorption test, thickness swelling and density test is 3x3 inches in length and width and 1/2

inches in thickness. The basis of the dimensions is from the TestLab Engineering and

Geotech Services.

Significance of the Study

The researchers provide brief descriptions of the significance of the study. The aim is

to produce a coconut fiberboard. Moreover, it will be advantageous to the following;

To the community. This study is beneficial to the community to produce fiberboard

from recycled coconut husk and Styrofoam.

To the environment. This study will greatly help the environment to lessen the

pollution and to minimize wastes.

To the construction firms. This study will help construction firms as an alternative

material for constructions.

To the researchers. This study will serve as a reference for future projects and study

development.

Definition of Terms
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ASTM. This term is the abbreviation of the American Society for Testing and Materials, a

worldwide standards organization that creates and publishes voluntary consensus technical

standards for a variety of materials, products, systems, and services.

Coconut Fiber. This term refers to a natural fiber extracted from the husk of coconut. The

fiber has good strength and flexibility. It is used in making floor mats, doormats, brushes,

mattresses, and coarse filling material.

Density. This term refers to mass of a unit volume of a material substance

Dissolved Styrofoam. This term refers to a liquid form generated when Styrofoam is

dissolved in acetone. Styrofoam is made of polystyrene foam.

Fiberboard. This term refers to a building material that is made of wood and other fibers

compressed into boards

Tensile strength. This term refers to the tension resistance of a material.

Thickness swelling. This term refers to the composite’s stability performance.

Water absorption. This term refers to the quantity of water absorbed by a material and is

calculated as the weight of water absorbed divided by the dry substance's weight.
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Chapter 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter contains the review of related literature and study that are

relevant to the study. studies shown below are related to the Coconut Fiber and Dissolved

Styrofoam as Fiber Board.

Coconut Fiber

Coconut fiber is a characteristic fiber extricated from coconut coir, a result of

coconut-based item. It is a likely material for fiberboard since it contains high cellulose and

lignin which is like wood. Cover less medium thickness fiberboard (MDF) from coconut

fiber was delivered to diminish the utilization of wood and the outflow of manufactured

cements, for example, urea formaldehyde utilizing lignin as common fastener. The

motivation behind this exploration was to decide the physical and mechanical properties of

MDF from coconut fiber dependent on SNI 01-4449-2006 and JIS A 5905:2003 and to

research the impact of oxidation treatment, extra paraffin, and squeezing time to the physical

and mechanical properties of the fiberboard. The outcomes showed that the fiberboards

created on this examination had medium thickness of 0.44-0.56 g/cm3 which fulfilled the

guideline for MDF. A large portion of fiberboards from coconut fiber acquired in this

examination satisfied the guideline for actual properties like thickness, dampness content,
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thickness growing, and screw holding power. Be that as it may, the mechanical properties

like modulus of versatility, modulus of crack, and interior obligation of the fiberboards had

not met the due to the absence of materials strength as demonstrated by (Puspaningrum et al.,

2019).

White coir contains high measures of lignin, which can go about as a characteristic

folio under reasonable states of pressing factor and temperature. Manufactured gums got

from oil are regularly utilized as fiberboard covers; in any case, they are possibly disease

advertisers. Furniture, wallboard, floors, and coatings can be created utilizing coir-based

fiberboards without expecting to chop down trees. This examination researched the capability

of coconut husks as a crude material for fastener less fiberboards. The fiberboards were

portrayed by warm examination, Fourier change infrared spectroscopy, and filtering electron

microscopy. The growing, water take-up, and the mechanical properties of the fiberboards

were additionally inspected. The use of high temperatures results in the production of

fiberboards exhibiting an enhanced water resistance, in accordance with the standard

procedure ABNT NBR 15316-2:2015 for High-density fiberboards (HDF). HDF were

successfully fabricated in the absence of additional binders. The pressing temperature plays

an important role in determining the material characteristics as claimed by (Pires et al.,

2017).

The microbial cellulose fiber is gotten from Nata de Coco, a characteristic

polysaccharide made out of super fine exceptionally unadulterated Nano-fibrillary network

structures at the miniature level, and has been appeared to have an astonishingly high

mechanical solidarity to withstand mechanical powers. Acacia gum is an eatable biopolymer

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exudate from Acacia Senegal which fills in Sudan. It is exceptionally dissolvable in water

with low thickness and with the correct extent, will bring about a steadier and pseudoplastic

conduct. Acacia gum is reasonable and earth acknowledged fastener/glue emulsifier and can

fill in as stabilizer and thickener to the item. The plant cellulose fiber, explicitly reused paper

has been used for its protection and acoustic properties as shown by (Chan et al. 2017).

Dissolving Styrofoam from Acetone

Dissolving Styrofoam or another polystyrene item in (CH3)2CO is a fabulous show

of the dissolvability of this plastic in a natural dissolvable. It likewise represents exactly how

much air is in the Styrofoam. You should simply to empty a touch of (CH3)2CO into a bowl,

and spot Styrofoam dots, pressing peanuts, lumps of froth, or even a Styrofoam cup in the

compartment. The Styrofoam will break up in the (CH3)2CO similar as sugar disintegrates in

steaming hot water. Since Styrofoam is generally air, you might be amazed by how much (or,

eventually, how little) froth will disintegrate in the (CH3)2CO. A cup of (CH3)2CO is

sufficient to break up a whole bean sack of Styrofoam dabs. Polystyrene foam is used to

make Styrofoam. The air in the foam is released as the polystyrene dissolves in the acetone.

This gives the impression that you're dissolving a large amount of material in a tiny amount

of liquid. As per (Helmenstine, A. Ph.D. 2019).

Styrofoam
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Expanded polystyrene (EPS) and Extruded polystyrene (XPS) are protection

materials utilized in warm protection frameworks for building envelopes, underneath grade

establishments, and rooftops. There are roughly 56 test reports and examination papers that

have been recognized on the particular subject about the dampness conduct and corruption of

warm execution of XPS and EPS in building applications. In any case, without basic survey

on this information, such huge informational collection assortment can scarcely be utilized

because of the discussions and inconsistences existed in the current structure. This paper

zeroed in on tending to this test. By presenting two new boundaries “SVR/Density” and

“dPP/Density” during the examination of the dampness conduct and warm execution of

polystyrene warm protection tried with different properties and conditions. With better

deciphering on the information, the effects of estimating methods, test conditions, material

thickness and protection mean temperature on the important test outcomes (dampness

substance and warm conductivity proportion – TCR) are contemplated and explained. As per

the investigation on the fittingness and relevance of the announced qualities, relationships are

proposed on the variety of TCR versus dampness content and with thickness impact likewise

mulled over. The connections coordinated with the exploratory information inside the worthy

reaches. According to (Cai et al., 2017).

According to (Ahmad et al., 2015). Polystyrene is a common polymer that is utilized

in a variety of applications including home items, packaging, vehicles, and other engineering

applications. In this study, four micrometer-sized fillers (calcium carbonate, graphite, mica,

and talcum powder) were synthesized with polystyrene at three different concentrations (1%,

2%, and 3% by weight). The samples were manufactured using a hand-operated injection
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moulding machine, and the composites were made using an in-situ polymerization process.

Synthesized polystyrene-talcum powder composites will have a maximum rise of 72.50

percent, while synthesized polystyrene-mica composites will see a minimum rise of 10.35

percent.

Tensile Strength

According to (Ndububa et al., 2015). To make Fonio Husk Particleboard (FHP)

samples, fonio ("Acha") husk was combined with an adhesive liquid resin of gum Arabic that

passed through a maximum 4mm sieve aperture. The resin binder was made from crushed

gum Arabic balls combined with water in a 4:3 weight ratio. By weight, the resin was

injected at 20 percent, 25 percent, 30 percent, 35 percent, 40 percent, and 45 percent

concentrations. Particleboard samples were mechanically tested after pressing, heat

treatments, and curing. The compressive strength of the material ranged from 0.057N/mm 2

at 20% to 0.369N/mm 2 at 45 percent. With increasing resin levels, tensile strength grew

continuously, peaking at 0.792 N/mm 2 for a 45 percent level. Flexural strength followed the

same pattern, peaking at 3.697 N/mm 2 at 45%. Some of the values were within the British,

American, and European Standards' minimum requirements. The boards are not designed to

be used as weight bearing materials, but they are ideal for internal wall barriers and ceilings.

The significant expense of building materials on the planet has constrained scientists

into sourcing for an option yet less expensive material to be utilized as a substitute for the

contemporary development materials in structural designing development works. In this

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examination, polyester sap which was made locally by dissolving polystyrene froth in a

dissolvable was utilized to create polymer concrete. The polymer solid (mortar) was set up

without the expansion of any coarse total. Different amounts of coconut fiber by weight of

the polyester + gum was added to the constituent blend and its exhibitions just as strength

advancement were contemplated. The expansion of coconut fiber to the polyester + polymer

cement of blend proportion 1:5.67 (15% of cover to 85% of total) offers little improvement to

the compressive strength of the solid however on 3% substance, the compressive strength

gets diminished. The blend proportion of 1:3 (25% of fastener to 75% of total) has an

amazingly low hardening measure (showed poor early strength) and in this way can't be

shaped into a huge mass without clasping or fizzling on its own weight. There was little

solidified and strength advancement when blended and formed with 1% of coconut fiber by

weight of the polyester+ yet on expansion of 2% and 3% of coconut fiber, it was improved.

The polymer cement of 2% fiber content has ideal compressive strength for both the blends.

The examples are then tried for 28 days compressive test with a Universal Testing Machine.

Further wok is anyway needed to asses other blending proportions (somewhere in the range

of 1:3 and 1:5.7) and furthermore with the presentation of coarse total in the blend. On the

authority of (Abolarin et al., 2017).

Water Absorption

According to (Mbereyaho et al., 2020). MDF is a medium density fiberboard (MDF)

that has been widely used in furniture and as a building material. The production of MDF is
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based on wood supplies derived through tree chopping, and this process may result in gradual

deforestation. Various studies have demonstrated the benefits of employing various

renewable biomass sources for MDF manufacture. This research looked into the possibility

of employing African couchgrass, which is a widely available grass that has been one of the

most troublesome weeds in agricultural areas. The density, moisture content, water

absorption, and thickness swelling of the manufactured MDF were all examined during the

test. 727.143 kg/m3, 5.81 percent, 9.18 percent, and 7.6 percent were the established results,

respectively. All of these results are within the range of ASTM D1037's approved standard

values, indicating that couchgrass can be used in the production of MDF. This novel material

was created with the intention of being utilized as a partition component. As a result, more

research is needed to assess other critical features such as fire and sound resistance, as well

as a proposal for a prospective replacement for the currently utilized industrial wood glue.

The samples were manufactured using a hand-operated injection molding machine,

and the composites were made using an in-situ polymerization process. Synthesized

polystyrene-talcum powder composites will have a maximum rise of 72.50 percent, while

synthesized polystyrene-mica composites will see a minimum rise of 10.35 percent. The

influence of water absorption on the mechanical characteristics of flax fiber reinforced bio

epoxy composites at different weight fractions (40 and 55 wt percent) was investigated.

Water absorption was tested by immersing specimens in a water bath at room temperature for

a period of time. The water absorption process of these composites was discovered to be

similar to Fickian diffusion behavior. The results showed that the diffusion coefficients and

maximum water absorption values rose as the fiber content increased. Water-immersed
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specimens' tensile and flexural characteristics were assessed and compared to dry composite

specimens. The findings imply that water absorption causes flax fibers to swell, which can

have a positive impact on the composite's mechanical properties. The findings of this

investigation revealed that the RTM technique may be used to make natural fiber reinforced

composites with good mechanical properties, even in humid environments. According to

(Muñoz et al., 2015).

Thickness Swelling

According to (Magalhaes et al., 2020). The effect of panel moisture content (MC) on

the physico-mechanical properties of medium density fiberboards is investigated in this

research (MDF). For 9 weeks, a variety of commercial MDF boards from Europe were stored

at room temperature and relative humidity (RH) (about 15–20 °C and 50–85% RH). A strip

of each MDF board was cut out, divided into 5 5 cm test pieces, and its internal bond strength

(IB) was assessed once a week. Internal bond strength was shown to be strongly influenced

by MDF moisture content, therefore IB test pieces were stored in a climatic chamber (either

at 20 °C, 55 percent RH or at 20 °C, 70 percent RH). Between IB and MC, a declining linear

relationship was discovered. This impact was discovered to be reversible: after drying,

internal bond strength increases again

Density
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According to (Kara et al., 2105). Some mechanical and physical features of

commercially made MDF boards were evaluated in relation to wood species, panel density,

and adhesive utilization ratio. MDF trial samples with an 18 mm thickness were made from

100% beech (Fagus orientalis) and 100% pine (Pinus brutia) wood fibers at two different

levels of urea formaldehyde resin (180-190 kg/m3) and two different density levels (700-720

kg/m3) for this purpose. According to MDF panel test results, wood species have a

significant effect on modulus of rapture, screw withdrawal resistance, and thickness swelling.

Fiberboard density is effective on internal bond and modulus of rapture, and adhesive ratio is

particularly effective on thickness swelling properties of the panel boards. MDF samples

made from beech fiber had the highest resistance at 720 kg / m3 density and 190 kg / m3

adhesive level, whereas pine fiber samples had the lowest resistance at 700 kg / m3 density

and 180 kg / m3 adhesive level.

Fiberboard

According to (Sutakhote et al., 2020). Fiberboard composite out of recycled

polystyrene foam and pineapple leaf fiber. To reach the green-material research, the green

essential oil D-limonene was employed as a solvent for dissolving polystyrene foam and

reusing it. The weight ratio of D-limonene and pineapple leaf fiber. The pineapple leaf fiber

was manufactured in a length of 30 mm with a regulated diameter in the range of 0.037-0.072

mm. The weight levels of fiber ratio were altered as follows: 0%, 16.67%, 25%, and 50%

when combined with a matrix. The composite specimens were fabricated and examined for
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 21

tensile characteristics, modulus of elasticity, elongation at break, water absorption, and

surface topography. The results demonstrate that a composite with 50% pineapple fiber

reinforcement has the highest tensile strength and modulus of elasticity, but it loses

elongation at break and water absorption qualities. However, depending on the anticipated

quality for each application, fiberboard could be manufactured in varied polystyrene foam:

pineapple leaf fiber ratios.

Standards

From American Society for Testing and Materials [ASTM D-1037] (1978). the

specimens for tensile strength were chopped into 150 x 50 x 25mm pieces. The sample was

fixed at both ends and placed on the machine. Both tensioned ends of the machine were

stretched till it failed while it was pushed manually. Splitting was the cause of failure.

From Indian Standard [IS: 2380] (1977). The specimen must be weighed to an

accuracy of not less than 0.2 percent after conditioning, and the breadth, length, and

thickness must be measured to an accuracy of not less than 0.3 percent. These measurements

will be used to calculate the volume of the specimen. After that, the specimen must be

submerged horizontally in 25 mm of fresh, clean water at a temperature of 27 2°C. The test

specimens must be separated by at least 15 mm from each other, as well as from the

container's bottom and sides. The specimen must be suspended to drain for 10 minutes after a

2-hour submersion, after which the excess surface water must be removed and the specimen
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 22

weighed immediately. The item will subsequently be immersed for another 22 hours and the

weighing procedure will be repeated.

From American Society for Testing and Materials [ASTM D 1037] (1987). The

standard test for thickness swellings. After 24-hours of submersion, the thickness swell must

be measured in line with. Two specimens per panel must be cut, and the test results must be

averaged to establish the panel's thickness swell.

From Indian Standard [IS: 2380] (1977). The standard test for density. The width,

length and thickness of each board shall be measured. The mass shall be determined to an

accuracy of ±O.2 percent. When doing density determinations, test specimens of the size

described in 2.1 must be used. When the density of the specimen used for the static bending

test needs to be calculated, the specimen used for the static bending test might be used.

Other Studies

According to (Abdulkareem et al., 2017). Using bamboo and resinous material

derived from Polystyrene wastes, this study was able to make extremely robust

particleboards. The particleboards were made by combining bamboo fibers with polystyrene-

based resin (PBR) and flat pressing them at various ratios (v/v). Physical parameters were

measured using the ASTM D-1037 standard, with reference to normal and oven curing

procedures. The samples' thickness swelling (TS) was measured. After 2 and 24 hours of

immersion in water at a temperature of 25°C, the results were calculated. The physical
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 23

parameters of particleboards with 20%, 30%, and 40% PBR content were determined to be in

accord with the American National Standards Institute's low density particleboard

categorization (ANSI). As the PBR content in the matrix reduced, TS increased. The

obtained parameters persuasively indicate that the synthesized resinous polystyrene has

superior bonding ability to known industrial adhesives commonly used in particleboard

manufacture.

According to (Hudjaima Mariwa, 2001). Marang peelings and broke up Styrofoam as

a decent part in making Hardiflex-Like utilizing nail holding limit and water retention test.

Marang peelings was hacked into little pieces and were sun dried. (300) grams of Styrofoam

were broken up in 1 liter of premium gas to acquire the ideal thickness of the cover. Marang

peelings and broke down Styrofoam were blended to a proportion 1:1, 2:1, and 1:2. The

combinations is pound into arranged disintegrate, sun dried and restored. The Hardiflex were

relieved in one (1) month before the test were led. Five preliminaries were led for every

treatment utilizing the nail holder limit and three preliminaries were likewise led utilizing

water assimilation test. Results showed that the Hardiflex like having the proportion 2:1 has

more noteworthy mass holding limit (3683. 74 grams) to hold. Furthermore, the proportion

1:1 proportion Hardiflex like has the least water retention methods for 9.87 grams. The

analyst inferred that there is critical contrast on the methods for the proportion Hardiflex like

utilizing the nail holding limit and water assimilation test.

Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 24

Chapter 3

METHODOLOGY

Research Setting

The study will be conducted at Zone 3 Baba St. Barra, Opol, Cagayan de Oro City

where the fiberboards will be made. The tests will be conducted at TestLab Engineering and

Geotech Services located at You We Tong Building, Gusa Highway, Cagayan De Oro City.

Research Design

The study will be a quantitative experimental research where the samples will be

tested the tensile strength, water absorption, thickness swelling and density test of fiberboard.

The study will also observe the effect of the different ratio mixtures if it would have a

significant effect for the said parameters. 

Respondents and Sampling Procedure

The study will not have respondents because the research design is experimental.

However, the steps listed below will be the procedure on how to produce the samples for the

study.

1. The researchers will be making a molder that were made up of plywood with sizes

500x45 millimeter length and width with 12mm in thickness for tensile test, and a
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 25

3x3 inches length and width with 1/2 in thickness. for water absorption, thickness

swelling and density.

2. For dissolving Styrofoam, the researchers will be using one (1) liter of gas per 300

grams of Styrofoam.

3. Preparing the mould by brushing to remove dust.

4. Filling the mould with coconut fiber and dissolved Styrofoam separately. In Three (3)

different ratios; 1:1, 1:2 and 2:1.

5. Removing the fiberboard from the mould.

6. Repeat step 4, until making a total of thirty (45) samples of fiber board.

Research Instruments

The coconut fiberboards will undergo a tensile test using Universal Testing Machine

(UTM), for water absorption test tap water and oven will be used, for thickness swelling test

and density test caliper method will be used.

Validity and Reliability of the Instruments

The testing center is duly accredited by the Department of Public Works and

Highways-Bureau of Research and Standards (DPWH-BRS), and as a member of the

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), all the equipment is calibrated to

minimize error to give quality assurance.

Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 26

Data Gathering Procedure

The researchers will be gathering data from a series of test to determine the right

proportion of coconut fiberboard. for tensile strength, the fiberboard will be tested using the

Universal Testing Machine (UTM) and the data will be gathered by calculating the tensile

stress of the fiberboard. for water absorption, the fiberboard will be tested by soaking the

fiberboard into a tap water and then oven dry and the data will be gathered by calculating the

water absorption percentage. for thickness swelling and density, the fiberboard will be tested

using caliper method and the data will be gathered by calculating the thickness swelling

percentage and total density of a fiberboard. The researchers will produce a total of thirty

(45) samples of fiberboard.

Statistical Technique

For this research, the researchers used the ANOVA analysis to determine the

difference of three (3) ratios; 1:1, 1:2, and 2:1 and to identify which satisfy the hypothesis of

the fiberboard.
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 27

Table 1
Data on Tensile Strength

Trials 1:1 1:2 2:1

1
2
3
4
5

Table 2
Data on Water Absorption

Trials 1:1 1:2 2:1

1
2
3
4
5

Table 3
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 28

Data on Thickness Swelling

Trials 1:1 1:2 2:1

1
2
3
4
5

Table 4
Data on Density

Trials 1:1 1:2 2:1

1
2
3
4
5

Chapter 4
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 29

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

This chapter presents the data that has gathered from the tensile test, water absorption

test, thickness swelling test, and density test.

The specific objectives of the study can be stated briefly as follows;

1. To determine the tensile strength of the fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1,

1:2, 2:1. Where: the amount of first ratio is the coconut fiber, second is the

Styrofoam.

2. To determine the water absorption of fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1,

1:2, 2:1.

3. To determine the thickness swelling of fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1,

1:2, 2:1.

4. To determine the density of fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2:1.

5. To find the significant difference of the tensile strengths between fiberboard

mixtures ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2;1.

6. To find the significant difference of water absorption between fiberboard mixtures

ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2:1.

7. To find the significant difference of thickness swelling between fiberboard

mixtures ratios 1:1, 1:2, 2:1.

Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 30

8. To find the significant difference of density between fiberboard mixtures ratios

1:1, 1:2, 2:1.

Objective 1: 1.To determine the tensile strength of the fiberboard in terms of: mixture ratios

1:1, 1:2, 2:1.

Table 1:

Data on Tensile Strength (MPa)

Trials 1:1 1:2 2:1

1 6.29 5.73 8.26

2 6.34 5.70 8.46

3 6.28 5.72 8.12

4 6.26 5.68 7.80

5 6.27 5.73 8.00

Average MPa 6.29 5.71 8.13

Table 1 shows tensile strength of the coconut fiberboard. Where the ratio 2:1 of

coconut fiber and dissolved Styrofoam has the highest tensile strength with an average of

8.13 megapascal and ratio 1:2 of coconut fiber and dissolve Styrofoam has the lowest tensile

strength with an average of 5.71 Megapascal.

Objective 2: ……
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 31

Table 2

Data on Water absorption (%)

Trail 1:1 1:2 2:1

1 18.63 56.18 23.62
2 20.49 54.35 21.83
3 11.38 55.59 14.43
4 11.54 71.09 22.74
5 32.07 41.92 24.04
Average (%) 18.8 55.83 21.33

Table 2 shows water absorption of the coconut fiberboard. Where the ratio 1:2 of

coconut fiber and dissolved Styrofoam has the highest water absorption with an average of

55.83% and ratio 1:1 of coconut fiber and dissolve Styrofoam has the lowest water absorb

with an average of 18.8%.

Table 3

Data on Thickness Swelling (%)

Trials 1:1 1:2 2:1

1 2.28 2.70 2.98
2 2.53 1.51 0.88
3 2.10 1.38 2.30
4 2.04 0.61 0.25
5 1.17 0.42 1.46
Average (%) 2.0 1.32 1.57
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 32

Table 3 shows thickness swelling of the coconut fiberboard. Where the ratio 1:2 of

coconut fiber and dissolved Styrofoam has the lowest thickness swelling with an average of

1.32% and ratio 1:1 of coconut fiber and dissolve Styrofoam has the highest thickness

swelling with an average of 18.8%.

Table 4

Data on density (Kg/m3)

Trials 1:1 1:2 2:1

1 640.80 473.50 547.10
2 580.40 470.80 594.20
3 569.50 464.40 629.20
4 518.90 439.70 630.90
5 508.40 448.60 650.10
Average Kg/m3 563.6 Kg/m3 459.4 Kg/m3 610.3 Kg/m3

Table 4 shows density of the coconut fiberboard. Where the ratio 2:1 of coconut fiber

and dissolved Styrofoam has the highest density with an average of 610.3Kg/ m3and ratio 1:2

of coconut fiber and dissolve Styrofoam has the lowest density with an average of 459.4 Kg/

m 3.
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 33

Chapter 5

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

Conclusions

After conducting the density test, results showed that the coconut fiberboard having

the ratio 2:1 (610.3 Kg/ M 3 ¿ coconut fiber and dissolved Styrofoam has the greater density

compared to the other ratio of 1:1 (563.6 Kg/ M 3) and 1:2 (459.4 Kg/ M 3). Results showed

comparing three ratios of coconut fiberboard, the 2:1 ratio is a good substitute for fiberboard.

The researcher concluded that there is no significant difference of the ratio of the

coconut fiberboard using tensile test, water absorption test, and thickness swelling test.

Recommendations

The researchers recommend to add more ratio on the dissolved Styrofoam as

component in making a fiberboard

The researchers also recommend to conduct other test to determine the effectivity of
coconut fiberboard and compare it to the commercial fiberboards.
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 34

Also, the researchers recommend to use premium gas to dissolve Styrofoam easily.
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 35

REFERENCES

Abdulkareem, S. A., & Adeniyi A.G. (2017). Production of Particleboards Polystyrene and

Bamboo Wastes, 36, 788-793.

Abolarin, J., Ogunkunbi, G. A., Rahmon, R., & Olaleye, J. (2017). Performance of a Coconut

Fibre Reinforced Polyster+ Polymer Concrete, 14, 1465-1477.

Ahmad, S., Alam, T. Md., Siddique, A. Md., & Ansari, A. H. (2015). Tensile Strength of

Synthesized Polystyrene Composites, 4, 1038-1044.

American Society for Testing and Materials [ASTM D-1037] (1978). Standard Methods of

Evaluating the Properties of Wood-base Fiber and Particle Panel Materials. Retrieved

from https://www.astm.org/DATABASE.CART/HISTORICAL/D1037-78.htm

Cai, S., Cremaschi, L. & Zhang B. (2017). Review of Moisture Behavior and Thermal

Preformance of Polystyrene Insulation in Building Applications.

Chan, M. P., Chan, G., & Chan K. T. (2016). An all-Natural Cellulose Fiberboard.

Community for Recycling. (2019). Is Styrofoam Recyclable? Retrieved from

https://recyclingpartnership.org/communitiesforrecycling/is-styrofoam-recyclable/?
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 36

Helmenstine, A. M. Ph.D. (2019). Dissolve Styrofoam in Acetone.

Indian Standard [IS 3087] (2005). Particle boards of wood and other lignocellulosic materials

(medium density) for general purposes -Specification. Retrieved from

https://law.resource.org/pub/in/bis/S03/is.3087.2005.pdf

Indian Standard [IS 2380] (1977). Methods of Test for Wood Particle Boards and Boards
from Other Lignocellulosic Materials. Retrieved from
https://www.iitk.ac.in/ce/test/IS-codes/is.2380.1-21.1977.pdf

Little, M. (2018). Facts About Landfill and Styrofoam

Kara, M. E. & Ates, S. (2015). Effects of Some Production Variables on MDF Quality.

Magalhães, R., Magalhães, F., Nogueira, B., Costa, S., Paive, N., Ferra, J., Martins, J., &
Carvalho, L. (2020). Effect of Panel Moisture Content on Internal Bond Strength and
Thickness Swelling of Medium Density Fiberboard

Mariwa, H. (2001). Marang (Artocarpus Odorrotissimus) Peelings as Hardiflex-like.

Mbereyaho, L., Nzayisenga, L., Tuyizere, E., & Hagenimana, F. (2020). Application of

African Couchgrass in Manufacturing of Medium Density Fiberboard, 10(3), 211-

218.

Muñoz, E. & Garcia-Manrique, J. A. (2015). Water Absorption Behaviour and its Effect on

the Mechanical Properties of Flax Fibre Reinforced Bioepoxy Composites.

Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 37

Ndububa, E., Nwobodo, D. C., & Okeh I. M. (2015). Mechanical Strength of Particleboard

Produced from Fonio Husk with Gum Arabic Resin Adhesive as Binder, 5, 29-33.

Pires, C., Mattos, A. L., Cáceres, C., Feitosa, J., Filho, M., Morais, J. P., & Rosa, M. (2017).

Binderless Fiberboards Made from Unripe Coconut Husks.

Puspaningrum, T., Haris, Y. H., Sailah, I., Yani, M. & Indrasti, N. S. (2020). Physical and

Mechanical Properties of Binderless Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) from

Coconut Fiber.

Rowell, R.M. (2014). The Use of Biomass to Produce Bio-based Composites and Building

Materials.

Sutakhote, P., Nuchsopa, L., Duangpurksa, M., & Sartpreecha. S. (2020). Development of

Fiberboard from Polystyrene Foam Recycling – Pineapple Leaf Fiber Composites,

2279, 100001-1–100001-6.
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 38

APPENDICES

CURRICULUM VITAE

2x2 picture

executive look

Name: Patrick Roland M. Matutina

Address: P-2 Patag Bagontaas Valencia City, Bukidnon.

Email Address: [email protected]

ORCID no.

Name of Father: Rolando E. Matutina

Name of Mother: Hilda M. Matutina

School Graduated:
Elementary: Infant Jesus School of Bukidnon
High School: Infant Jesus School of Bukidnon
College: Liceo de Cagayan University

Membership:
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 39

CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: Carl Kress Q. Supnet

Address: Lapaz 2 Kolambog Lapasan Cagayan de Oro City

Email Address: [email protected]

ORCID no.

Name of Father: Enrico L. Supnet

Name of Mother: Miradel Q. Supnet

School Graduated:
Elementary: Initao Central School
High School: Initao National Comprehensive High School
College: Liceo de Cagayan University

Membership:
Liceo de Cagayan University College of Engineering Page 40

CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: Enriqueta Yonel F. Daigdigan

Address: 2nd 21st street Nazareth Cagayan de Oro City

Email Address: [email protected]

ORCID no.

Name of Father: Engr. Yonel M. Daigdigan

Name of Mother: Engr. Josefa Mariquette F. Daigdigan

School Graduated:
Elementary: Xavier University
High School: Xavier University
College: Liceo de Cagayan University

Membership: