Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences: Research Areas

Article Title: Development and Determination of Density for Nigerian Dry Bamboo Using Digestion Method
by F. A. Ovat, A. O. Ette, L. O. Asuquo and F. D.Olusola

Abstract:
The use of reinforcements in the production of composites materials for engineering applications provides for strength and rigidity. Fibre reinforced polymer composites have played a dominant role for a long time in a variety of applications for their high strength and modulus. The fibre which serves as a reinforcement in reinforced polymer may be synthetic or natural. Few investigations have been carried out with bamboo fibres despite its high strength, biodegradability, and low cost. The objective of this work was to develop fibre from Nigerian bamboo (dried) and determine the density for its suitability as reinforcement in composite fabrication which is yet to be found in existing literature. Bamboo piece free from blemish was obtained and dried to remove the moisture content using gravitational method after chipping it to sizes of 25mm. The extraction was carried out immediately after the bamboo moisture content was properly detected by the use of a gravitational weight pan. Chemical digestion method, the alkaline pulping method which is one of the best methods, as it is ideal for non wooden cellulosic material was used for the extraction of the fibre. The bamboo chip-solution was heated in a digester at a temperature of 100�C for 6 hours for digestion to take place. Fibre separation was done by means of weeding, thereafter bleaching was done by hypochlorite treatment. The density of the fibre was investigated to be

Keywords: Nigerian bamboo, fibre, density, hypochlorite treatment and alkaline pulping

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