Hygric and thermal characterization of composites coupling recycled or raw bio-based materials and starch

Abstract

This study aims to design cheap and environmentally friendly materials well suited for ceiling or interior walls of buildings. This project focuses on valorization of raw materials available in Ivory Coast. Developed composites are realized with eco-materials issued from local recycled or biobased materials: recycled paper (granules or cellulose wadding) and wood fiber. Aggregates or fibers are bonded with starch. This study investigates several water to starch ratio for each kind of load and two loads to binder ratio are also considered for paper granules. After production, hygric and thermal characterization of the composites is performed. At dry state, the densities of produced composites range from 300 to 600 kg/m3 and thermal conductivities range from 0.09 to 0.17 W/m/K. Moisture buffer values of the composites are measured as defined in the Nordtest protocol. All composites are at least good hygric regulators according the Nordtest project classification. When the paper granule content increases, the composites reach excellent hygric regulator levels whereas their thermal conductivities increase.