Process-controlled optimization of the tensile strength of bamboo fiber composites for structural applications

A straightforward mechanical processing protocol for raw bamboo, which leads to a fibrous material with physical features that are mainly defined by the bamboo species, has been developed. This material was used as a natural fiber source for the production of a high-tensile fiber reinforced composite. Thereby, controlling the parameters of the underlying hot press fabrication process turned out to be crucial for a systematic tuning of the tensile capacities of the resulting composite materials. Hence, the relationship between tensile strength, pressure, temperature and press/hold time is being analyzed. It has been observed that the composites reach a maximum tensile strength (similar to 180 MPa) at a certain pressure/temperature combination and any deviation from this range has a negative effect on the mechanical properties. The impact of the press/hold time, on the other hand, has been found to be rather small. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.