Development of Ultra Low-Density Fibreboard from Wood Pulp Using Plant Root System as a Reinforcing Material

Abstract

The concept of Ultra Low-Density Fibreboard (ULDF) from natural fibres was originated and advanced during the past few decades due to the need for a light-weight, better insulating and buffering material that could replace the synthetic materials like Styrofoam. Recently developed mycelium-based composites were considered as excellent replacements for such synthetic materials. However, one of the drawbacks of mycelium composites were the need for providing optimum conditions for the fungal growth. The present research work explored for the first time, a more practical way of producing ultra-low-density fibreboard by reinforcing the wood fibres with plant roots. As the plant root system grows, it absorbs moisture and the water which pass through the roots by capillary action to the shoots and the water is removed from the leaves due to transpiration. This process also binds together fibrous substrate materials and a biofibre reinforced system is produced in situ, offering great opportunities for the capillary action to the shoots and the water is removed from the leaves due to transpiration. This process also binds together fibrous substrate materials and a biofibre reinforced system is produced in situ, offering great opportunities for the development of fibreboard, utilising almost zero energy for drying of the substrate. Along with that, the work also experimented on the possibilities of creating moulded products using the same method. The boards produced were of lightweight and the production process eliminated the need of hot pressing or drying, thus being highly energy efficient. Nevertheless, the time taken for drying stands out to be a drawback of the process. The study being in its infancy has lot more to improve, together with the need of detailed tests on the physical and mechanical properties of the ULDF products.