Chemical analyses of lignocellulosic materials residue for cement panels reinforcement

Abstract

The use of lignocellulosic material residue in cement composites is on the rise as sustainable building materials in most developing countries. Besides, this alternative is seen as a good option for new cement panels formulations for indoor applications. Thus, the current paper aims to evaluate de chemical properties of five potential lignocellulosic materials residues to be used for cement panels reinforcement: Eucalyptus, sugarcane bagasse, coconut fibre, coffee rusk, and banana pseudostem. The following physical properties of the lignocellulosic materials were evaluated: lignin, extractives, ash, and holocellulose. To evaluate the similarity of the chemical composition of the lignocellulosic materials, Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) was used identified by using Ward's method of cluster analysis. These compositions were grouped by dendrograms in which the similarity of these data was qualified. It was observed that there were statistical differences among all types of lignocellulosic materials related to the chemical composition. Coconut showed the smallest amount of extractives, and sugar cane the most significant amount. Eucalyptus and coffee husk presented the most similar chemical composition. All of the evaluated materials could be used in fibre cement production for indoor applications.