Mechanical properties of cow manure-based organic composite material

Abstract

Composite materials are increasingly used for their high strength and stiffness, but environmental concerns drive interest in natural alternatives. This study explores composites made from composted cow manure mixed with organic fillers (hay, wood shavings) and bonded with wood glue. Samples were manually pressed, molded, and sun-dried before mechanical testing per ASTM D3039. Specimen 2 (~35% manure) showed superior performance, with an average UTS of 2.117 MPa and fracture strain of 1.809%, compared to Specimen 1 (~31% manure) with 1.794 MPa and 0.940%. This indicates that Specimen 2 endures higher stress before plastic deformation, while Specimen 1 is weaker but more consistent.