Suitability of Composite Panels developed from Waste Paper and Fluted Pumpkin Pod for Structural Application

This research explored the suitability of composite panels fabricated form waste writing-paper paste (WPP) and fluted pumpkin pod particles (FPP) for structural application. The WPP and FPP were utilized at varying proportions (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%) by weight to fabricate composite panels. The fabricated panels were dried completely and then subjected to various tests aimed at determining their suitability for structural applications. It was noticed that 100% FPP content yielded maximum water absorption (87.21%), thickness swelling (36.85%), specific heat capacity (1464 Jkg-1K-1) and minimum bulk density (793.9 kgm-3), thermal conductivity (0.2528 Wm-1K-1), thermal diffusivity (2.176 × 10-7 m2s-1), thermal effusivity (542 Jm-2K-1s-1/2), nailability (84.4%), flexural strength (1.335 N/mm2), showing that FPP-rich samples exhibited better thermal insulation. The results revealed that the panels could ensure thermal comfort better than conventional ceilings like Isorel, asbestos, and plaster of Paris. For practical application and service performance, utilization of the FPP at 50 % content level was found to be optimal.