Surface Wettability of <i>Gigantochloa scortechinii</i> Bamboo Fibers: Effects of Heat Treatment and Epoxy Coating in Seawater

This study investigates the effects of epoxy coating and heat treatment on the surface wettability of Gigantochloa scortechinii bamboo in marine environments with varying seawater salinity. Bamboo strips were heat-treated at 160ºC, 170ºC, and 180ºC, followed by single and double layers of epoxy coating. Analyses of chemical changes and microstructures were performed using ATR-FTIR and FESEM. Surface wettability was evaluated through contact angle measurements. The results showed a reduction in bamboo hydrophilicity at 180ºC, as well as smoother surfaces and altered chemical compositions in treated specimens. Double-layer epoxy coatings provided better surface protection against water exposure. Increased hydrophobicity was observed with higher treatment temperatures, particularly at 180ºC. Additionally, bamboo surfaces in 100% saline solutions demonstrated higher wettability compared to 50% and 0% salinity levels. These findings indicate that the combination of 180ºC heat treatment and double-layer epoxy coating enhances bamboo’s hydrophobicity, making it more suitable for marine applications.