Stems from amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus), an original agricultural by-product for obtaining low-density insulation blocks and hardboards for building applications
Résumé
Amaranthus cruentus is a promising raw material for the biorefinery of whole plant. Stems are composed of (i) a bark on their periphery (76% w/w), and (ii) a pith in their middle (24% w/w), both usable for material applications. It is possible to separate mechanically and continuously these two fractions thanks to a fractionation process developed recently, involving a grinding step plus a blowing one.
The low density for pith particles makes them usable as thermal insulating materials inside buildings (in the form of insulation blocks molded with 10% starchy binder). The optimal insulation block is light and insulating while preserving good machinability and promising mechanical properties.
The extrusion-refined bark was successfully used for the manufacture of hardboards (i.e., dense fiberboards) using hot pressing. The optimal hardboard is a viable option for replacing current wood-based building materials, e.g., floor underlayers, interior partitions, etc. According to NF EN 312 standard, this board is already usable for interior fittings (including furniture), in dry environment (P2 type board). With much improved water resistance (10% max for thickness swelling), it could be used as a P7 type board (board working under high stress, used in humid environment).
Origine : Fichiers produits par l'(les) auteur(s)
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