1Laboratory of Applied Energetics and Mechanics, 01 BP 2009 Cotonou, Benin
2Thermal and Energy Laboratory of Nantes (LTeN), UMR 6607 CNRS Nantes, France
3SEEPEG, R&D, Godomey, Bénin 03BP273, Cotonou, Bénin
4Laboratory of Engineering Sciences and Applied Mathematics
5Laboratory of Processes and Technological Innovations of Lokossa, UNSTIM, Benin
American Journal of Materials Science and Engineering.
2026,
Vol. 14 No. 1, 1-8
DOI: 10.12691/ajmse-14-1-1
Copyright © 2026 Science and Education PublishingCite this paper: Somassè Gbènato Roland, Chegnimonhan K. Victorin, Fannou Jean -Louis, Yamonché Jules Anicet Sagnon, Hounkpatin Henri Wilfried, Fagbémi Latif, Aredokou Louis. Study and Design of a Thermal Insulator Based on Typha domingensis and Cassava Starch: A Local Material Valorization Approach for Affordable Housing.
American Journal of Materials Science and Engineering. 2026; 14(1):1-8. doi: 10.12691/ajmse-14-1-1.
Correspondence to: Somassè Gbènato Roland, Laboratory of Applied Energetics and Mechanics, 01 BP 2009 Cotonou, Benin. Email:
sogber1975@gmail.comAbstract
This article is part of an effort to promote local resources and reduce the environmental impact of construction materials. The study aims to design and characterize ecological insulating panels made from Typha domingensis, an invasive plant, combined with cassava starch used as a natural binder. Samples were produced under four compaction pressures (3, 10, 20, and 30 MPa) and then characterized based on their physical and thermal properties. The results show that compaction pressure strongly influences the density, porosity, thermal conductivity, and thermal resistance of the panels. An intermediate pressure of 20 MPa was identified as the optimal level, yielding a material that is lightweight, stable, exhibits low thermal conductivity (0.087 W•m⁻¹•K⁻¹), and offers high thermal resistance (0.227 m²•K•W⁻¹). This balance reflects a homogeneous internal structure that effectively combines porosity and cohesion, supporting both durability and insulating performance of the material.
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