Papers by Author: Mansur Ahmad

Abstract: In this study, the classification of modes of failure, the observation of microscopic failures and the mechanical properties of Semantan bamboo strips were investigated. Specimens were loaded in bending and shear parallel to grain. Specimens were taken from internodes and node parts in bottom, middle and top portions of bamboo culms. From the classification, different modes of failure occurred in different parts of Semantan bamboo culms loaded in bending and shear. From the microscopic observation, the failures occurred in both parenchyma and vascular bundles regions for all classified failure modes from all tests, except for Even Splitting Mode from shear. This mode exhibited failure in parenchyma only, without any failure in vascular bundles regions. The Maximum Stress (σml) values between failure modes for both tests were significantly different. Generally, anatomical behaviour at different culm’s parts had influenced the different modes of failure and microscopic failures of Semantan bamboo strips loaded in bending and shear.

Abstract: The use of alternative materials from agriculture and plantation bio-mass has widely been researched especially for use in bio-composites. These bio-mass have been used in flour form as fillers, in fibre form as reinforcements and in both flour and fibre forms as bulking agents. These bio-mass not only enhanced the composites but also help to reduce the burden on natural fibres from the forests. Furthermore, these bio-mass fibres can be used as an alternative or supplementary raw material in composites such as fibre glass-polymer composites by replacing part of the synthetic fibres, if not all, depending on the final application of the finished composites. Combining one material with other materials provides a strategy for producing advanced composite materials that take advantage of the properties especially bending strength of both types of resources. It allows the researcher to design materials based on end-use requirements within a framework of cost, availability, recyclability, energy use, and environmental considerations. This paper reports on the bending strength of MDF from kenaf, oil palm EFB, and from admixtures of EFB and kenaf in different ratios. Production of composite material from these diversified resources will not only help to reduce the pressure on natural forests, it is also an alternative to overcome waste disposal problems in palm oil industries. The results indicate that kenaf and EFB could be mixed to produce MDF. The panel produced can be used for furniture components such as table tops and shelves, wall partitions and door panels.