Dried Mango Leaves (Mangifero indica): As Alternative Components for Particle Board (Plywood) Production

Abstract

Forests and trees cover over 25% of the Philippines' area, emphasizing the country's rich natural resources. Smallholder farmers widely cultivate mango trees, but dry mango leaves accumulation and improper disposal have raised environmental concerns. Burning these leaves contributes to air pollution and neglects their potential as a valuable resource. In response, researchers aimed to convert waste from dried mango leaves into particle boards for construction, aiming to reduce solid waste and promote environmental sustainability. The researchers employed descriptive and developmental research approaches to understand their research topic thoroughly. The study focused on engineers and individuals with construction backgrounds in the Philippines, specifically in four municipalities within the Nueva Ecija province: Cabiao, San Antonio, Jaen, and San Isidro. Data were gathered through the use of physical questionnaires and personal interviews. From this target population, a sample of 100 participants was derived using purposive sampling. A durable, eco-friendly particle board has been developed from dried mango leaves. The board is optimized for strength, stability, and flexibility to support various applications while resisting environmental factors such as moisture and pests. The particle board made from dried mango leaves meets the necessary strength, durability, safety, and eco-friendliness standards. It exhibits good strength and durability, has low formaldehyde emissions, and is composed of renewable and biodegradable materials, making it a potential eco-friendly alternative to conventional wood-based particle boards. The significant findings suggest a strong interest in using renewable, sustainable materials in construction and business and a willingness to try new products with a low environmental impact. When choosing a product, the respondents consider the durability, cost, and environmental impact. Most participants are willing to use and buy a particle board made from dried mango leaves that is eco-friendly and has comparable durability to the commercially available product. Consequently, there is a need to develop such a particle board to meet the market's demands. Overall, the study provides evidence to support the potential of using this eco-friendly product in the construction industry.