Effect of Moisture Content on the Tensile Properties of Areca Leaf Sheath

The growing environmental concerns regarding non-biodegradable disposable dining ware call for sustainable alternatives. Fallen Areca leaf sheath (ALS) presents a promising solution, as it is an eco-friendly, biodegradable material that can be molded into disposable products through a simple heat pressing process. Before heat pressing, ALS is immersed in water to enhance its pliability. However, the quality of ALS-based products is highly influenced by moisture content, which affects the material's tensile properties during the molding process. This study investigates the effect of moisture content on the tensile properties of ALS to determine the optimal soaking duration. It was found that as the moisture content increases, the tensile strength of ALS decreases when soaked for less than 5 minutes. Meanwhile, the elongation at break improves after soaking. Water acts as an effective plasticizer for ALS, enhancing its ductility for the heat pressing process. These findings provide valuable data for manufacturers, allowing for more consistent product quality and potentially reducing waste in the production of disposable dining ware.