Development of a water-repellent floor tile from rice husks and sawdust.

Abstract

The study investigates the creation of environmentally friendly bio-composite floor tiles by reinforcing poly-lactic acid (PLA) bio-polymer with agricultural waste materials including sawdust and rice husks. To increase the materials' compatibility with PLA, the study looks into how treating sawdust and rice husks with sodium hydroxide affects their characteristics. The ratio of these bio-fillers to PLA is then optimized using a design of experiment (DOE) technique to produce bio-composite floor tiles with a balance of mechanical strength, water resistance, and density. Lastly, the study assesses the bio- composite floor tiles' mechanical (flexural strength and impact value) and physical (water absorption and bulk density) qualities. The results encourage waste assessment in the construction industry and aid in the development of sustainable building materials.