The Field Performance of Palm Fibre Insulation Board Treated with Cassava Starch

Abstract

The field performance of palm fibre insulation board treated with cassava starch solution has been studied. This was done in search of local substitutes for imported insulation materials used in low temperature (45°C – 200°C) ovens. Fresh oil palm fibre was collected from palm-kernel, washed with non-reactive detergent to remove its oil content and dried to constant mass in an oven. The dried palm fibre was treated with 0.2 w/w starch solution, compacted into rectangular boards and re-dried in an oven to constant mass. The fibre bands were then installed in a locally developed oven for the field test. The test involved examining the stability of the thermo-physical properties of the insulation board after baking activities for 4 hours. This was done by comparing the density, physical appearance and thermal conductivity of the board before and after the use in the oven for baking. There were no significant changes in the thermo-physical properties observed before and after use. The results indicate that the palm fibre board is suitable for use as an insulation material in low temperature oven application. Successful implementation of the board could contribute greatly to savings on importation costs of conventional insulation materials while enhancing the safer utilization of a by-product of the Nigerian palm oil industry. Furthermore, this will enhance better environmental conditions and comply with the current clamor of converting waste to riches.