Effect of Steam Pretreatment of Andong Bamboo Slats on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Ply Bamboo for Ship Body Construction

Abstract Ply bamboo composite is a promising alternative to being an alternative ship body construction materials due to its cost-effectiveness and sustainability. Bamboo’s quick growth and availability make it a desirable resource, and its physical and mechanical characteristics make it solid and durable for ship body construction. However, the dimensional stability of ply bamboo is still poor. Thus, the bamboo strips must be pretreated. This study evaluated steam-treated ply bamboo’s properties according to the JAS 234:2003 standard, including physical and mechanical performance. Steam treatment involves heating 30 cm x 30 cm x 0.5 cm bamboo strips at 126°C for 30, 45, and 60 minutes in an autoclave. Steam preliminary treatment improves the physical and mechanical properties of ply bamboo. Steam-treated ply bamboo has superior physical and mechanical characteristics compared to untreated ply bamboo. The physical characteristics and ply of the bamboo significantly improved after 45 minutes of steam treatment at 126 °C. As steam treatment time rose, the mechanical performance of bamboo decreased. Ply bamboo has several benefits for ship construction; however, it requires specialist production, and bamboo quality varies. Further research and development could optimize bamboo’s utilization for ship body construction.