Development of thermal-resistant and eco-efficient insulation boards from agro-waste using alkali-activated binders

The investigation examined the production of particleboards using sugarcane bagasse and rice husk, along with hydrated lime, sodium hydroxide, and sodium silicate. Traditionally sourced from fresh wood, particleboard manufacture contributes to deforestation and health hazards from formaldehyde-based adhesives. This study investigates the feasibility of agro-waste particleboard, enhanced with modern binding agents to improve its structural integrity. Common agricultural byproducts, such as rice husk and sugarcane bagasse, present promising avenues for sustainable materials. Hydrated lime acts as reinforcement, while sodium silicate and hydroxide serve as effective binders. The study examined how variations in processing parameters influence key material properties, including dry density, pH, moisture content, water absorption, and bending strength. Notably, particleboard blends M3 exhibited favourable characteristics, including a dry density of 685.8 kg/m3, a moisture content of 10.8%, a water absorption rate of 78.7%, a pH of 9.89, and a static bending strength of 11.5 kg. The pursuit of eco-friendly alternatives aims to mitigate environmental impact and advocate for efficient waste management, potentially yielding particleboards with superior performance and ecological benefits. Agro-waste–based particleboards produced from sugarcane bagasse and rice husk, bonded with hydrated lime and alkaline activators, demonstrated viable mechanical and physical performance as sustainable alternatives to wood-based boards. Processing parameters significantly influenced dry density, moisture content, water absorption, pH, and bending strength, with the M3 blend achieving optimal performance and structural integrity. The findings highlight the potential of agricultural waste valorization to reduce deforestation, eliminate formaldehyde-related health risks, and promote environmentally responsible particleboard production.