Characterization of acai waste particles for civil construction use

ABSTRACT In the Amazon, the main potential for contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) lies in using agro industry waste in civil construction as an alternative for sustainable materials. In this context, this study aimed to assess the potential use of acai (Euterpe oleracea and Euterpe precatoria) waste particles to create composites that may be used in more sustainable buildings. Density assays were performed using picnometry. The moisture levels were measured and, lignin, cellulose and extractive contents were assessed according to the parameters of TAPPI 204, 211, and 222. Density analyses were performed using picnometry, moisture was analyzed, and lignin, cellulose, and extractive contents were assessed according to the parameters of TAPPI 204, 211, and 222. The results showed that the mean particle density is 1.49 g.cm-3 and the moisture content ranged from 2 to 6%. Regarding chemical make-up, higher lignin and extractive contents were found, in addition to a reduction in cellulose compared to other plant fibers. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the presence of only the endocarp of açaí stone in particles of 8 and 14 Tyler and a higher prevalence of fibers in particles of 48, 100, and 200 Tyler. Knowing the characteristics and behaviors of açaí waste particles is important to lay basis for composite processing stages using this material. Moreover, the use of acai stones reduce the environmental impacts, allowing mainly civil construction to produce new, more ecological materials that lead to sustainability indicators in buildings of the Amazon.