Thermo physical and mechanical properties plaster of Paris ceilings modified with oil palm mesocarp fiber for application in buildings

The essence of this study is to assess the feasibility of improving the properties of the plaster of Paris (POP) ceiling by modifying it with oil palm mesocarp fibre (OPMF) in order to solve the disposal problem of the latter. Various weight proportions of the OPMF were used to replace the POP during the fabrication of the samples. All the samples were dried completely and then tested. The results showed that as the filler (OPMF) inclusion in the POP matrix increased from 0% to 40%, the change in mean values of water absorption, bulk density, thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, thermal diffusivity, heat flow time, flakiness, and flexural strength (12.22 – 25.75) %, (1.768 – 1.407) 103 kgm-3, (0.2245 – 0.1465) Wm-1K-1, (1.498 – 1.825) 103 Jkg-1K-1, (8.477 – 5.705) 10-8 m2s-1, (9.64 – 14.37) mins., (0.65 – 2.08) %, and (3.02 – 1.38 ) N/mm2 respectively. It was found generally that the inclusion of the OPMF into the POP matrix could yield composite ceilings with enhanced/better thermal insulation capability for use in buildings. This, if implemented, could help to solve the disposal problem associated with waste while ensuring sustainable construction of thermally-safe and inexpensive buildings.