Comparison of binderless boards produced with different tissues of totora (Schoenoplectus californicus (C.A. Mey) Soják) stems

• Published in: Journal of Building Engineering 2020-01, Vol.27, p.100961, Article 100961
• Main Authors: Hidalgo-Cordero, Juan Fernando, García-Ortuño, Teresa, García-Navarro, Justo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Binderless board; Biocomposite; Biomaterial; Mechanical testing; Natural fiber
• ISSN: 2352-7102; 2352-7102
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jobe.2019.100961

Different types of non-wood forest products have been used to produce binderless boards with potential environmental benefits. Totora (Schoenoplectus californicus) is a macrophyte that has long been used for traditional constructions in the Americas; however, its contemporary applications are limited. In this study, the feasibility of producing binderless boards using different tissues of totora stems was studied. The physical characteristics, lower lignin content, and lower solvent extractives content of pith particles caused better particle's interactions that promoted their self-bonding effect that generated better MOR and IB values of pith binderless boards. However, the hygroscopic nature of pith particles also created high TS and WA for pith boards, whereas boards made with the rind, which has higher extractives and lignin content showed the lowest TS and WA values but also lower mechanical resistance. These findings may help understand the potentialities of these biomass resources and optimize the industrial processes for producing construction materials with them. [Display omitted] •Totora pith particles are softer and more hydrophilic than rind particles.•Stellar shapes of pith cells create more contact surface between particles.•Boards made with separated tissues showed better results than with whole stems.•Boards made with pith particles at 150 °C showed better mechanical properties.•Boards made with rind particles at 150 °C showed better water resistance.