Evaluation of the Physical and Thermal Properties of Fibers Extracted from the Trunks of Urena Lobata and SIDA Stipulata Plants

Abstract

This scientific work was carried out to investigate the properties (hygroscopic, physical and thermal) of fibers extracted from the Urena Lobata and Sida Stipulata plants, in order to compare them with other fibers already used in the manufacture of panels or biosourced concretes. The fibers are manually detached from the plant trunk, then dried and studied. The results of the study revealed that Urena Lobata fibers are more sensitive to water. The water absorption rate and water content were respectively evaluated at 228.58% and 10.5% for Urena Lobata fibers and 220.94% and 8.6% for Sida Stipulata fibers. For densities ranging from 111 to 193.31 kg/m3, the measured thermal conductivities are between 0.046 - 0.075 W/ mK for Urena Lobata fibers and 0.043 - 0.064 W/mK for Sida Stipulata fibers. These results show that both types of fiber can be used in the manufacture of thermal insulation materials.