Experimental research

Includes bibliographical references

The research study focuses on evaluating the physical, mechanical, and wind-resistant properties of lightweight coconut coir fiber-cement roofing panels coated with cassava-based biopolymer. It addresses the need for developing cost-efficient, typhoon-resilient, and sustainable roofing materials for typhoon-prone areas in the Philippines, specifically Dasmariñas, Cavite. The panels were fabricated using experimental mix designs with different coconut coir fiber concentrations containing 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%, all coated with 10% cassava starch, then compared to a plain cement control group of 0% coconut coir fiber concentration without coating. The fabricated panels were then subjected to a series of standardized tests; Flexural strength was assessed using ASTM C293, Compressive strength through ASTM C109, Water Absorption using ASTM C1185, and Wind Resistance test using Static Sandbag Loading Method based on ASTM E72 and NSCP 2015 standards. The results of the test demonstrated that the 4% fiber concentration provided the optimal mechanical performance, reaching a peak flexural strength of 16.393 MPa, surpassing the industry roofing standard requirement of 16 MPa under ASTM C1225 for Type A exterior roofing. Additionally, the application of the biopolymer coating greatly reduced water absorption up to 1.471%, successfully functioning as a pore filler for the 4% mix group panels. Exceeding the 4% threshold, the mechanical performance began to decline, with the 8% mix group deteriorating to 15.375 MPa due to fiber clumping and elevated porosity. The wind resistance test proved that all of the mix groups could withstand applied pressures of 2,943 Pascals, which is approximately equivalent to wind speeds of 250 km/h, safely exceeding Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 4 limits. Concluded that the 4% coconut coir fiber-cement with cassava biopolymer coating provides an affordable, sustainable, and sturdy alternative for roofing applications, which is highly capable and effective at withstanding severe weather conditions in a high-risk typhoon zone.