Characterization mechanical properties of alkali‑treated OXYTENANTHERA ABYSSINICA bamboo fiber properties: case study

Abstract

Ethiopia's indigenous lowland bamboo (Oxytenanthera abyssinica) plant mechanical properties have not been extensively studied in the context of single fibers, which presents significant challenges when considering its applications in various industries such as textiles, fashion, and structural engineering. The lack of comprehensive research has hindered the ability to fully harness the potential of this remarkable natural resource. In light of this gap, the current study aims to systematically investigate a range of critical mechanical properties, including breaking force, tenacity, elongation, work done, and modulus, while examining the individual and interactive effects of various factors such as plant age (ranging from 36 to 54 months), soaking duration (between 5 and 15 minutes), and alkali concentration (from 5% to 15%).

Utilizing Box–Behnken design expert@11 software 2D and 3D plotting techniques, the study provides a clear visualization of these relationships, making it easier to understand how each variable impacts the overall performance of the bamboo fibers.

The findings disclosed that increasing the alkali concentration significantly aids in reducing the fiber's weight by effectively dissolving lignin and hemicellulose, which the primary components are contributing to the fiber's heaviness. Furthermore, as both the alkali concentration and the age of the bamboo plant increase, there are noticeable improvements in the mechanical properties of the fibers, indicating that older fibers may possess enhanced resilience and strength. However, it is noteworthy that this positive trend reaches a plateau or even declines beyond certain thresholds, except for the modulus, which demonstrated a unique response, suggesting that further exploration is warranted. The study not only highlights the potential for optimizing treatment conditions to significantly enhance bamboo fiber performance but also emphasizes the importance of further research in this area. By unlocking the mechanical capabilities of Ethiopian bamboo, we can pave the way for innovative applications in sustainable fashion and structural materials, ultimately contributing to more environmentally friendly practices within these industries. This research serves as a foundational step toward understanding the true potential of bamboo fibers, encouraging further investigation that could lead to the development of new, eco-conscious products that utilize this abundant and versatile natural resource in Ethiopia.

Keywords: Lowland bamboo, Bamboo fiber, Mechanical properties, alkali concentration, Box-Behnken