3 Testing of physical and mechanical properties
2.3.1 Density
The density and specific gravity of samples of palm leaves and WPC samples were measured using displacement method as per ASTM-D-792.
2.3.2 Water absorption and swelling ration
Water absorption of palm leaves and WPC samples was determined as per ASTM-D-570-95. The prepared samples in addition to natural wood and MDF are immersed in water for exactly 24 h. After surface drying, all samples are re-weighted and the change of mass due to swelling is determined as percentage of the dry sample mass following the ASTM method-D 570-95.
The swelling ration of the palm leave is calculated by the following method:
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Three pieces from a dry date palm leave of about 5 cm long were cut and mark them as N (Nodal), M (Middle) and R (Rear) portions each
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The masses of the dry samples was measures and record as mN, mM and mR.
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The samples soaked in a beaker filled with distilled water and keep them for 24 h.
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After 24 h the samples were surface dried and weighed. Record MN, MM and MR masses of the swelled samples.
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The swelling ratio (SR) was calculated in percentage of weight difference. The average of the three specimens was calculated.