Kontchou Herman Fredy1, Kenmeugne Bienvenu2, Annouar Djidda Mahamat3, Tchikdje Kouekem Marthe Prudence4, and Essome Mbang Jonas Peequeur5
1 Department of Industrial and Mechanical Engineering, National Advanced School of Engineering, University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon
2 Department of Industrial and Mechanical Engineering, National Advanced School of Engineering, University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon
3 Laboratoire d’Etude et de Recherche en Technique Industrielles (LERTI), Faculté des Sciences Exactes et Appliquées, Université de N’Djaména, Chad
4 Pôle de recherche, de l’Innovation et l’Entrepreneuriat (PRIE), Institut Universitaire de la Cote, Douala, Cameroon
5 Centre d’Etudes sur les Changements Climatiques et la Mobilité (CECAM), Douala, Cameroon
Original language: English
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Abstract
Faced with the proliferation of plastic waste (LDPE), the overexploitation of Sanaga sand, and the under-utilization of coconut husks in Cameroon, this study developed and characterized an innovative ternary composite. The aim was to establish an artisanal manufacturing process and optimize the proportions of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) waste, Sanaga sand, and coconut husk powder for sustainable construction. The process, inspired by ecological paving, tested nine formulations (LDPE 20-40%, sand/coconut 0-10%). Samples were characterized for their apparent density, water absorption rate, and mechanical properties (bending). Results showed a decrease in density with LDPE and coir powder. Water absorption remained very low (max. 0.640%), guaranteeing excellent durability in damp conditions. Although maximum flexural strength was lower than for thermo-compressed composites (probably due to the absence of pressure compaction in the artisanal method), the incorporation of coir conferred a certain ductility. Some formulations (F0/40, F5/20) are potentially usable for T4/T5 or T5 type pavers, and indoor flooring (P2). Future optimization will include pressure compaction and improvement of the LDPE/coconut interface to enhance performance. This work contributes to sustainable waste management and the promotion of environmentally-friendly building materials.
Author Keywords: Coconut Shell Powder, Composite, Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Sanaga Sand, sustainable construction.
