Development of Cement-Based Composites Using Screw Pine Leaf Waste for Sustainable Community Products

Abstract

This study demonstrates an innovative approach to waste material valorization through the development of reinforced fiber cement using screw pine (Pandanus tectorius Blume) leaf waste (SLW). First, the researchers study fiber cement composites with SLW, cement, and water in different ratios. The results showed that the 1:30:30 (w/w) ratio gave the highest compressive strength of 15.35 kg/cm²; the density was 1,100±0.08 kg/m³, and water absorption was 38.38 ± 1.61%. Then, the researchers studied the water absorption reduction of this fiber cement by coating it with a water-repellent for 15 minutes. The results indicated that the water absorption value was reduced to 33.78 ± 1.31%. Next, the researchers applied this fiber cement production method to produce cement pots, which were found to be well-formed and, when tested for compressive strength, had a value of 11.09 ± 0.23 kg/cm² and a water absorption value of 34.95 ± 2.23%. Later, the researchers conducted a study on customer satisfaction and cost-benefit analysis from the production of fiber cement pots; the result showed that the customer had an average satisfaction of 4.402 ± 0.101, which was very satisfactory. The production capacity is 1,000 pots, costing 12,600 baht, and the average cost per pot is 12.60 baht. If sold at 35 baht per pot, there will be a gross profit margin of 64.00%. Finally, this technology was transferred to the Khlong U-Tapao Watershed Community's weaving industry in Songkhla, Thailand, creating a sustainable revenue stream while supporting community-based tourism (CBT) initiatives.