Life estimation of cattail fibre acoustic wall panel by decomposition kinetics

Natural fibre-reinforced composites are securing a place in the realm of sustainable materials. The replacement of non-biodegradable fibres with biodegradable materials, which offer benefits such as reduced environmental impact and potential cost savings, is a crucial consideration in current and future manufacturing processes. In this study, we meticulously prepared and analysed cattail fibre-reinforced composites to estimate their Lifetime. The composite materials were crafted using water-borne polyurethane as a matrix, and alkaline-boiled extracted natural fibres were used as reinforcements (20%). These composites were manufactured using a hand lay-up process. Subsequently, we conducted a thermogravimetric analysis for each material at four different heating rates (2, 10, 20, and 40 degrees C/min) within a specific temperature range. By applying the Toop equation, the lifetime and the decomposition energies are measured. The cattail fibre-reinforced composites showed a 25-year lifetime at 25 degrees C, but it was reduced to 5 years by increasing the surrounding temperature from 25 to 45 degrees C. In addition, using the Flynn-Wall method, the activation energies (Ea) were determined, and we came to the conclusion that the material may be used. This research signifies the importance of providing comprehensive functional LCA for composite materials that can degrade during service. The role of material durability in material selection for building design is discussed.