Effect of clay addition on service properties of a developed OPF–CNSL–formaldehyde roofing material

In this study, the properties of locally developed composites for roofing purposes were investigated. With the addition of varying compositions of clay, cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL)–formaldehyde was reinforced with oil palm fiber (OPF) to produce six experimental mixes. The composites were fabricated from each mix with 0.25 wt.% OPF by hand lay-up approach followed by compression molding. The overall service properties were optimum when the clay content was in the ranges of 30–35 wt.%. It was established that within this range of clay content, the composites can be suitable for the production of roofing material.

► CNSL–formaldehyde reinforced oil palm fiber (OPF) plus clay composites.
► Flexural and tensile strength increased as the clay content increased.
► Tensile and flexural strength attained values of 5.33 MPa and 1.4 MPa respectively.
► The developed composites can be suitable for the production low-cost roofing material.