Study and Design of a Thermal Insulator Based on Typha domingensis and Cassava Starch: A Local Material Valorization Approach for Affordable Housing

Somassè Gbènato Roland^1, , Chegnimonhan K. Victorin^{2, 3}, Fannou Jean -Louis⁴, Yamonché Jules Anicet Sagnon⁵, Hounkpatin Henri Wilfried³, Fagbémi Latif¹ and Aredokou Louis⁵

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

Cite this paper:
Somassè Gbènato Roland, Chegnimonhan K. Victorin, Fannou Jean -Louis, Yamonché Jules Anicet Sagnon, Hounkpatin Henri Wilfried, Fagbémi Latif and 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

Abstract

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.

Keywords:
Typha domingensis insulating performance.cassava starch ecological insulation panels thermal conductivity

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