Atmawi Darwis

Densified wood anatomical structure and the effect of heat treatment on the recovery of set

Densification of wood is a method to improve wood quality. However, its product namely densified wood, tends to return to the initial shape and size (spring back) if the fixation had not completed. This method will also result in the changes on wood anatomy structure. The aim of this research was to assess effect of various densification degrees at radial direction on recovery of set (RS) and anatomical structure of wood of Agathis loranthifolia Salisb and Gmelina Arborea Roxb. The result showed that heating at 180xa0°C resulted in the decreasing of RS wood densified. Cell woods namely tracheid, fiber and ray parenchyma on the surface became more flat and buckle compared to those at the center. Flat and buckle produced an S-shape in cell wall structure. Densified wood perfectly fixed yet after being given a heat treatment at a temperature of 180xa0°C up to 24xa0h.

Bionanomaterial from agricultural waste and its application

Agricultural waste has significant potential in composites due to its high strength, availability, and sustainability. The potential of agricultural waste has sparked a lot of research to find ways to use these materials as replacements for synthetic materials and for biocomposite polymer products. Pineapple, rice husk, oil palm, banana, coconut, etc., are sources of renewable energy. Their availability comes especially from plantations and waste from some other agricultural industries. Lignocellulose is a major component of agricultural waste and consists of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. In addition, it represents a major source of natural fibers as an alternative raw material for biocomposites. Now, there are many potential applications for bionanocomposites that have been explored, such as packaging, automotive, and others application. This chapter will concentrate on the fundamental properties of different agriculture wastes. At the end, some points regarding nanocomposite production and its applications for various purposes will be discussed.