Harnessing the potential of Pseudoxytenanthera bamboo rhizome for enhanced high-friction assistive solutions

Abstract

Bamboo cultivation has surged globally, yet environmental concerns arise due to the invasive nature of bamboo rhizomes, often overlooked in favour of shoots. Despite being a renewable resource with rapid growth, rhizomes are underutilized in engineering due to their limited tensile strength from short fibers and hydroxyl group presence. This study explores the untapped potential of Pseudoxytenanthera stocksii (P. stocksii) [Syn. Dendrocalamus stocksii] rhizomes (PSR), enhancing their engineering properties by chemically treating and displacing hydroxyl groups to mitigate their hydrophobic nature. Utilizing the inherent compressive strength of bamboo, treated P. stocksii rhizomes are employed in fabricating composites through hot compression molding, tailored for high-friction assistive applications. Comprehensive analyses, including physical, chemical, and tribological assessments, evaluate PSR for high-friction scenarios, benchmarking them against culm composites and other natural fibers. Results indicate that benzoylated P. stocksii rhizome composites (BPSRC) exhibit properties comparable to, and in some cases surpass, many natural fibre composites. Superior thermal adaptability, revealed through thermogravimetric analysis, positions BPSRC as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional natural fibre composites. Tribological tests underscore the adaptability of PSR composites for high-friction assistive applications, presenting a promising avenue for sustainable bamboo utilization and environmentally conscious engineering solutions.