Desarrollo de paneles de totora compactada y confinada con costuras de cuerda como revestimientos interiores para muros y cielo raso

Abstract

This study addressed the development of construction panels made from totora (Schoenoplectus californicus), a lignocellulosic plant fiber widely available in wetland ecosystems of southern Ecuador. In the context of the search for sustainable building materials, the research explored a low- environmental-impact alternative based on the mechanical compaction and stitching of fibers, avoiding the use of synthetic adhesives. The objective was to evaluate the influence of compaction pressure and panel thickness on the physical and mechanical performance of the panels, as well as to assess their potential application in interior cladding systems. To this end, prototypes with different thicknesses and compaction pressures were manufactured and subjected to bending and compression tests using the UNE-EN 408 standard as a methodological reference, adapted to the characteristics of the material. The results were analyzed through descriptive statistics, scatter plot matrices, and linear regression models. Findings showed that thickness was the variable with the greatest influence on bending strength, exhibiting an inverse relationship with the mechanical performance of the panels, while compaction pressure had a limited influence within the evaluated range, although higher compaction levels led to significant improvements in both bending and compression strength. In addition, the constructive feasibility of the panels was verified through the development of mechanical anchoring systems for walls, ceilings, and interior partitions. It is concluded that totora has potential for the development of lightweight and sustainable construction panels, representing a bio-based alternative with low industrial processing requirements for interior architectural applications.