Properties of maize-stalk-based cement-bonded composites

Homogeneous cement-bonded particleboards 6 mm in thickness were made from maize stalk with Portland cement and calcium chloride. Boards were produced at two levels of cement/maize stalk ratio and three levels of additive concentration and board density, giving 18 treatment combinations. Modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), thickness swelling (TS), and water absorption (WA) were evaluated with the aim of examining the effect of production variables on board strength properties and dimensional stability. From the trend observed, MOR andMOE increased in the same direction as the production variables, but TS and WA had an inverse relationship with production variables. Their effects on properties examined were significant. The strongest and most dimensionally stable boards were produced at the highest levels of cement/maize stalk ratio, additive concentration, and board density. From this study, maize stalk proved to be suitable for the manufacture of cementbonded particleboards after hot water treatment. This study provides an avenue for further research on the use of other agricultural residues for cement-bonded composites.

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