| Title | नारियल का खोल (Coconut Shell)Rare Nāriyal kā khol Coconut Shell |
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| Description | Nāriyal Khol (नारियल खोल), or coconut shell, is a lignocellulosic agricultural byproduct [1] traditionally employed in Indic heritage architecture, particularly in coastal regions like Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Its chemical composition primarily consists of cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose. Physical properties include a density of approximately 1.2 g/cm³ and a tensile strength ranging from 20-30 MPa. Historically, Nāriyal Khol served as a roofing material, a filler in mortar mixes (enhancing workability and reducing cracking), and a fuel source. In Sanskrit, it may be referred to as *Shriphala Kavacha* (श्रीफल कवच). Traditional processing involved drying and sometimes charring the shells. Durability is affected by moisture content and fungal attack, necessitating conservation strategies like surface treatments with natural oils. In South Indian architecture, examples exist where coconut shell was integrated into partition walls and decorative elements. Restoration efforts at heritage sites require careful consideration of compatible materials and traditional techniques to maintain structural integrity and aesthetic value. The material's low thermal conductivity contributed to cooler interior spaces. |
| Also Known As | Coconut Shell Nāriyal kā khol Coconut Shell Coconut Husk Shell of Coconut नारियल का खोल नारियल कवच श्रीफल कवच தேங்காய் ஓடு (Tēngāy ōṭu) కొబ్బరి చిప్ప (Kobbari chippa) ತೆಂಗಿನ ಚಿಪ್ಪು (Tengina chippu) നാളികേര ചിരട്ട (Nāḷikēra ciraṭṭa) |
| Tags | नारियल खोल Nāriyal Khol Coconut Shell Natural Fiber Roofing Sustainable Material |
| Material ID | INHFMAT-356215139-20-11-25-NC |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/coconut-shell |
| API Endpoint | https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/coconut-shell |
| Total Sites | 1 |
| Primary Sites | 1 |
| Created | November 20, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 28, 2025 |
| Types | Natural Fiber Agricultural Byproduct Composite Material |
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| Regions | Kerala Tamil Nadu India (Coastal Regions) |
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| Time Periods | Traditional |
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| Sources | Coconut Plantations |
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| Properties | Density: 1.2 g/cm³ Tensile Strength: 20-30 MPa Moisture Content: Variable Thermal Conductivity: Low |
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| Uses | Roofing Material Filler in Mortar Fuel Source Handicraft Material Partition Walls |
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| Materials | Lime Mortar Wood |
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| Styles | Vernacular Architecture |
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| Categories | House Rural Buildings |
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| Notes |
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| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Knowledge Systems of India | Book | Uses of coconut shell in construction |
| Site Name | Status | Usage | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Padmanabhapuram Palace Kanyakumari | Primary | 100% |