Eco-Friendly (Water Melon Peels): Alternatives to Wood-based Particleboard Composites

• Main Authors: U. D. Idris, V. S. Aigbodion, C. U. Atuanya, Abdullahi. J
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University of Kragujevac 2011-12-01
• Series: Tribology in Industry
• Subjects: Board composites; Water melon particles; Mechanical; Physical and Wear properties
• Online Access: http://www.tribology.fink.rs/journals/2011/2011-4/6.pdf

The aim of this study was to investigate the suitability of using water melon peels as alternatives to wood-based particleboard composites. The water melon peels composite boards were produced by compressive moulding using recycled low density polyethylene (RLDPE) as a binder. The RLDPE was varies from 30 to 70wt% with interval of 10wt%. The microstructure, water absorption(WA), thickness swelling index(TS), modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), internal bonding strength(IB), impact strength and wear properties of the boards were determined. The results showed that high modulus of rupture of 11.45N/mm2, MOE of 1678N/mm2, IB of 0.58N/mm2, wear rate of 0.31g were obtained from particleboard produced at 60wt%RLDPE. The uniform distribution of the water melon particles and the RLDPE in the microstructure of the composites board is the major factor responsible for the improvement in the mechanical properties. The results showed that the MOE, MOR and IB meet the minimum requirements of the European standards, for general purpose like panelling, ceiling, partitioning. Hence, water melon particles can be used as a substitute to wood-based particleboard for general purpose applications also besides being environmental friendly of using watermelon and RLDPE in production of particleboard, this alternative to wood-based particleboard is very cost-effective.