Characterization of the Palmyra Petiole as a Biovegetal Material of Artisanal Construction in Chad

The palmyra is a wood particularly famous for its resistance to xylophages and various bad weather. But the determining factors of this resistance are unknown. This base material is available in the form of lignocellulosic waste generated in large quantities, following its grooming, maintenance and felling. This lignocellulosic waste is not valued in Chad. Its petiole is the biovegetal material widely used in Chad for the artisanal manufacture of furniture and other works. The present study concerns the determination of its physical, chemical and mechanical characteristics. We used chemical analyzes, physical tests and mechanical tests in three-point flexion, intension and in compression. Its contents in cellulose, lignin and Hemicellulose obtained justify its resistance to physical and chemical degradation and its attack by termites. The values of its mechanical characteristics obtained place it between the category D50 and D60 of hardwoods. Those of its physical properties place it among the light woods. This study, the first on the knowledge of the scientific and technical properties of the palmyra of Chad, opens perspectives on a new field of study on the behaviour of this abundant natural raw material with a view to its valorisation and its rational use in various fields, such as pulp and building construction and public works.