INTEGRATIVE REINFORCEMENT OF NATURAL FIBER: FABRICATION OF PEANUT SHELL TILES IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

Abstract

Alternative recycling materials are one of the most promising strategies in the construction sector for reducing global warming, high energy demand, and carbon emission release. Several studies oriented their research toward encouraging the concept of recycling, reusing, and reducing agriculture plant waste to be integrated into material construction. With a focus on “peanut shell waste”, the paper aims to highlight the possibility of generating lightweight and sturdy units/tiles in building construction. The method first started with evaluating the energy parameters effect of peanut shells in building construction, followed by the experimental test. This test was done by examining a mix of peanut shells with sand and corn starch to generate tiles/brick units. Different form-generation were explored to fabricate the casting mould of the unit. With the use of bio-resin, the mix was cast in the mould and then assembled after drying. The resulting tile’s prototype showed the possibility of using them as 3D units that can be assembled to generate a self-structured element, or as tiles to be used indoors or outdoors. Different architecture applications can be generated from these tiles/units as an alternative to industrial building materials which can decrease the environmental impact of natural waste storage. In addition, these tiles will enhance the thermal performance of the space if it is used as insulation in the walls, which in parallel will reduce carbon emission. Further research is to generate 3D printing filament from peanut shell waste as bio-based material. Another study can assess the difference between peanut shells mixed with clay bricks with traditional fired bricks from a mechanical behaviour and thermal performance point of view for humidity and temperature monitoring.