MORPHOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF EPOXY COATED BAMBOO FIBERS BEFORE AND AFTER SEAWATER EXPOSURE

Abstract

Bamboo, recognized as a sustainable construction material, shows great potential for use in challenging environments such as seawater. However, its inherent hydrophilicity limits its application in such conditions. Therefore, enhancing the water resistivity of bamboo through the application of a polymeric coating is crucial to limit seawater absorption. This research aims to examine the effects of seawater on the morphological characteristics of bamboo fibers coated with epoxy, considering variations in seawater concentration. The bamboo samples were subjected to heat treatment at 170°C and manually coated with two layers of epoxy. They were then submerged in seawater at concentrations of 100%, 50%, and 0% for a duration of 21 days. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis revealed that the double epoxy coatings provided complete surface coverage, characterized by continuity, uniformity, and smoothness. Additionally, the coating was observed to be intact and free of any damage on both the bamboo surface and the cross-section before immersion. However, samples exposed to 100% seawater exhibited significant coating degradation, characterized by surface deterioration and separation of the coating. Coating detachment was observed across all samples, with higher salinity levels resulting in more extensive damage. These findings highlight the role of epoxy coatings in enhancing bamboo's resistance to marine conditions, although their protective effects may be limited to short-term applications in seawater.