Properties of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Husks and Its Fiber Potentials

Abstract

Coconut husks are that parts of coconut that are generally regarded as waste materials of the fruits. Numerous studies have been conducted and documented that coconut husks are high source of fiber and other minerals. The present study examined the properties of coconut husks, whose information is considered useful in the development of a foundation in a structure. Proximate analyses of coconut husks were carried out as preliminary studies with a view of identifying the husks' potential uses in various applications. Proximate analyses were determined by methods described by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC). The analyses showed that coconut husks contained 44.68 ± 2.3% lignin, 42.46 ± 2.1% cellulose, 9.57 ± 0.40% moisture, 1.71 ± 0.05% ash, 1.12 ± 0.03% crude protein, and 0.56 ± 0.05% crude fat. The fiber was evaluated for its weight capacity potentials as a foundation for a product which afforded it as a favorable material for support and holding of structures. Different amounts of coconut husks used in the study showed positive significant values in weight capacity of foundation it supported.