Search Results (2)

Bamboo is a fast-growing lignocellulosic plant in nature. It is an abundant and renewable resource with wide applications. The processing of bamboo results in a large amount of residue. In this paper, we developed a method to utilize bamboo residue to prepare a novel lightweight porous molding material. A hydrated thermochemical grinding process was proposed to disintegrate bamboo fibers and activate bamboo’s own binding components. The influence of the water removal by pressure from bamboo suspension and subsequent different drying methods on the product’s properties was evaluated. The two-step drying ensured a low production cost and high product quality. The bamboo molding material was characterized based on thermal stability, morphology, functional groups, particle size distribution, crystallinity, and mechanical strength. A lightweight porous material was obtained with a density of 0.23–0.35 g/cm³ by freeze-drying. A high mechanical strength was obtained with a tensile strength of 0.62 MPa and a compressive strength of 10.31 MPa by oven drying. The auto-adhesive mechanisms, including fiber anchorage, polymerization, water plasticization, and heat plasticization, were discussed. The bamboo molding material is a reconstruction of bamboo cell wall components and is easy to recycle. It has potential applications in construction and buildings, packaging, and indoor furnishings. Full article

Wood is an abundant biomaterial and widely used in construction and furniture. Timber processing produces large amounts of residues and byproducts, which are of low value. In this study, we proposed a new strategy for the recycle of wood residues to prepare a wood porous molding material. A hydrated thermochemical grinding process followed by high-temperature and high-pressure refining was developed to convert wood powder into high-viscosity suspension. Lignocellulosic raw materials, including pine wood, beech wood, and bamboo, were compared with different grinding time. A porous material without the addition of synthetic adhesive was obtained with a density in the range of 0.28–0.67 g/cm³. The porous molding material was characterized based on fiber morphology, volume, and porosity and mechanical performance. Pores of different sizes were distributed in the samples randomly after curing and drying. The wood’s own bindings were released through the hydrated thermochemical grinding process. The porous sample made from bamboo with a grinding time of 6 h showed a high Young’s modulus (681.1 MPa), compactness (166.8 N/Sec), and hardness (517.6 N). Woody materials were more readily made into moldings since most of the cellulose crystal structure remained intact. The wood porous moldings are fully composed of lignocellulosic components and easy to recycle. This porous green material has great potential to be applied to insulation, ceiling, cabinet, and packaging. Full article