Iranian Journal of Wood and Paper Industries

Iranian Journal of Wood and Paper Industries

Evaluation of composite made of rice husk and gypsum using bacterial nanocellulose fiber (BNCF)

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
ali hassanpoor tichi 1
Mesam Razavi 2
amin khatiri 3
1 Assistant Professor, Department of Wood industry, National University of Skills, Tehran, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, National University of Skills, Tehran, Iran.
3 PhD student, Department of Science and Wood and Paper Industries, Noor Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran Province, Iran.
10.22034/ijwp.2025.2048436.1689
Abstract
Problem definition and objectives: In countries such as Iran, where forest resources are limited, utilizing agricultural residues for the production of eco-friendly panels is considered an effective strategy to reduce dependence on wood and prevent deforestation. On the other hand, given the abundance of mineral resources in Iran, incorporating these materials into mineral-based composites can help alleviate pressure on forest resources. In this context, the present study investigates the effect of bacterial nanocellulose as a reinforcing agent on the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of composite boards made from gypsum (as a mineral binder) and rice husk (as filler). The objective of this research is to assess the feasibility of using this composite as a sustainable and environmentally friendly construction material.
Methodology: The experimental variables in this study included the weight ratios of bacterial cellulose nanofibers, rice husk, and gypsum at levels of 90:10, 80:20, and 70:30, based on the dry weight of gypsum. Bacterial cellulose nanofibers were incorporated at concentrations of 1%, 2%, and 3% to enhance the bonding between gypsum and rice husk. In total, nine treatment combinations were designed, resulting in the fabrication of 27 laboratory-scale composite boards. The test specimens were manufactured with a uniform thickness of 16 mm, and the final density of all boards was maintained at 1.10 g/cm³. The mechanical and physical properties of the samples were subsequently assessed, including modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), internal bond (IB), thickness swelling after 2 and 24 hours of water immersion, board density, and fire resistance (measured as the percentage of weight loss).
Results: The results demonstrated that increasing the proportion of rice husk in the composite structure significantly influenced the physical and mechanical properties of the panels. A higher rice husk content led to a decrease in the modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and internal bond strength (IB), which can be attributed to increased porosity, uneven particle distribution, and reduced adhesion between components. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that the addition of bacterial nanocellulose (BNCF) improved particle distribution, minimized structural defects, and enhanced the cohesion between gypsum and rice husk, ultimately leading to improved mechanical properties of the composite. Since rice husk contains high levels of silica (SiO₂), it is expected that the inherent silica also contributes to reinforcing structural bonds and enhancing the mechanical strength of the composite. However, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed a noticeable increase in the intensity of peaks associated with hydroxyl (O-H) and glycosidic (C-O) bonds in samples containing bacterial nanocellulose. Since glycosidic (C-O) bonds are not exclusive to nanocellulose and are also present in the cellulose structure of rice husk, a portion of these peaks may originate from the rice husk itself. Nonetheless, a comparative FTIR analysis between samples with and without nanocellulose confirmed that the increased intensity of these peaks in the presence of BNCF indicates improved interfacial bonding and enhanced structural adhesion. Therefore, while the silica in rice husk contributes to the reinforcement of gypsum-based bonds, the improved mechanical strength of composites containing nanocellulose is primarily attributed to structural optimization, reduced void spaces, and enhanced interfacial cohesion rather than a direct reaction between nanocellulose and gypsum. Additionally, although glycosidic bonds are also found in rice husk cellulose, their increased intensity in nanocellulose-containing samples highlights the role of nanocellulose in enhancing the composite structure.
Conclusion: The addition of bacterial nanocellulose enhanced matrix cohesion and reduced porosity, leading to lower water permeability and improved dimensional stability of the composites. While the silica content in rice husk contributed to enhancing the mechanical and thermal properties of the panels, the plant-based structure of rice husk increased porosity and moisture absorption. Furthermore, due to its low thermal conductivity and bio-based nature, bacterial nanocellulose reduced the fire resistance of the composite panels. These composites, exhibiting improved mechanical strength and physical durability, demonstrate significant potential for use in interior building panels and other non-load-bearing structures, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional materials.
Keywords
Nano cellulose
internal bond strength
rice husk
modulus of rupture
gypsum composite

Subjects

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Iranian Journal of Wood and Paper Industries
Volume 16, Issue 3
Autumn 2025
Pages 303-322