Rattan Cane Research Articles

Water Absorption Characteristics of Two Rattan Species (Laccosperma Secundiflorum and Eremospatha Macrocarpa) from Fresh Water Swamp, Lagos State and Rain Forest, Edo State, Nigeria

Water Absorption is one of the properties that determine the suitability of rattan canes as structural material especially for outdoor use. This study therefore evaluated the water absorption characteristics of two rattan species (laccosperma secundiflorum and eremospatha macrocarpa) from a fresh water swamp, Arapagi village, Lagos state and rain forest-Nicholas village, Edo state in Nigeria by collecting three matured wild rattan species from each ecological location and the water absorption carried out after 24 hours and 48 hours respectively. The results show that, water absorption after 24 hours ranged from 39.63 % to 82.51%. However, water absorption after 48hours increased from 44.53 % to 93.74 %. It was also observed that water absorption after 24 hours and 48 hours increased along the axial direction from base to top. Meanwhile, the samples of the two rattan species sourced from Rain forest had lower water absorption values than Fresh water swamp. In conclusion, the two rattan species had different levels of water affinity, however, samples obtained at the base from Rain forest absorbed less water.

Insights into key factors affecting bioconversion efficiency of rattan biomass: The supramolecular structural variations of cellulose

Global energy concerns urged us to search for sufficient utilization of biomass to renewable energy. Herein, rattan biomass displaying herbaceous species-like anatomy and hardwood-like chemical composition was used as model of lignocellulose to determine its recalcitrance inhibiting efficient bioconversion. Delignification and continuous mild alkaline treatments were applied for deconstruction of rattan cane (Calamus simplicifolius) followed by cellulase enzymatic hydrolysis. Cellulose supramolecular structural variations were proved to be the major reason for the enhanced hydrolysis in addition to the removal of lignin and hemicelluloses matrix. Lowered crystallinity (50–65 %) as well as swelled crystallite sizes (4.8–5.0 nm) during allomorphic transformation favored the enhanced hydrolysis, rather than the crystalline cellulose II. Moreover, well-distributed separation and fibrillation of cellulose elementary fibrils also contributed to glucose yield promotion. The study will provide new insights to the strategy to efficient bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass.

Mechanical characteristics of Biomaterial Particles Reinforced Epoxy Resin Composites for Automobile Accessories

Abstract In this study, rattan corncob composite materials were developed and their mechanical properties were determined. This was with a view to producing alternative composite materials for automobile applications. Dried corncobs and rattan cane were crushed, treated with caustic alkali NaOH (aq) and transferred into a water bath machine to reduce the hydrophilic nature of the fibres in the polymer. The shredded corncobs and rattans cane were sun-dried after the treatment to remove the moisture content and were further pulverized and sieved to obtain 400μm particle size. Compositions of the particles were varied for seven samples with the binder kept constant at 80wt% of the whole mixture and forming them into particle panels using a metal mould. The process was repeated in order to obtain three replicates to get the exact mean value. The produced panels were tested for density, water absorption, tensile strength and modulus, flexural strength and modulus, and optical microstructure. The results revealed that the densities ranged between 1.06g/cm3 to 1.30g/cm3, the water absorption properties ranged between 0.87% to 4.55%, tensile strength ranged between 42MPa to 90MPa, tensile modulus ranged between 2.2GPa to 5.9GPa, flexural strength ranged between 50MPa to 70MPa and flexural modulus ranged between 1.5GPa to 2.7GPa. It was concluded that the developed composite materials have good mechanical properties and could serve as alternative materials for making automobile accessories like bumpers and spoilers. It could also help in solving the problem of environmental pollution caused by open burning.

Anatomical, Physical, Chemical, and Biological Durability Properties of Two Rattan Species of Different Diameter Classes

Rattan cane is an important forest product with economic value. Its anatomical, physical, and biological properties vary with the cane height. This makes it difficult to select the appropriate cane diameter for harvesting. Understanding the material properties of rattan cane with different diameter sizes is important to enhance its utilization and performance for different end uses. Thus, the present study was performed on two rattan species, Calamus zollingeri and Calamus ornatus, at two different cane heights (bottom/mature and top/juvenile). Calamus zollingeri was studied at diameter classes of 20 mm and 30 mm, while Calamus ornatus was analyzed at a diameter class of 15 mm. The anatomical properties, basic density, volumetric swelling, dynamic moisture sorption, and biological durability of rattan samples were studied. The results showed that C. zollingeri with a 20 mm diameter exhibited the highest basic density, hydrophobicity, dimensional stability, and durability against mold and white-rot (Trametes versicolor) fungi. As confirmed by anatomical studies, this could be due to the higher vascular bundle frequency and longer thick-walled fibers that led to a denser structure than in the other categories. In addition, the lignin content might have a positive effect on the mass loss of different rattan canes caused by white-rot decay.

Contribution of rattan cane in livelihood resilience in relation to Community Forest User Groups and Rattan Processing Enterprises in Nepal

This study highlights the contribution of rattan cane in livelihood resilient of rural people in Nepal. Rattan cane is used as raw material for rattan processing enterprises as well as livelihood resilient of community people. The study was designed based on the exploratory research and was carried out in Community Forest User Groups (CFUGs) Kailali and Bardia district including rattan processing enterprises of major cities in Nepal. The main objective was to assess the contribution of rattan on capitals of Sustainable Livelihood Approaches (SLA) that increase resilient of community people. Systematic random sampling method was followed to take the sampling of rattan processing enterprises and CFUGs. Primary data was collected through open-ended questionnaire, and direct observations; and secondary data was collected from business reports, Forest Operational Plans, and audit reports. The questionnaire survey was conducted to 35 rattan entrepreneurs and rattan traders, and ten executive committee members of CFUGs and 526 household members. The quantitative data was analyzed using frequency of SPSS 20 software tools. The study found that rattan has been important source of income to improve their human capital, natural capital, physical capital, social capital and financial capital in relation to livelihood resilient in the community level, and creation of job in the enterprise level. The major constraints concerning the livelihood resilient was that investment was focused community development rather than household income, investment on rattan development and management was low, and weak employability focus. The study also identified a number of opportunities in the livelihood perspective such as enterprise development, employment generation to youths and linkage with service providers.

Processing and marketing of rattan canes in Nepal

This study highlights the processing and marketing of rattan canes with reference to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The study was designed based on the exploratory research, and was carried out in all the districts of Nepal with rattan enterprises. The main objective was to assess the processing status, supply, and demand including constraints and potentialities of rattan-canes as well as their marketing practices. Systematic random sampling method was followed to take the sampling of rattan processing enterprises of CFUGs. The questionnaire survey was conducted among35 rattan entrepreneurs cum rattan traders and ten executive committee members of CFUGs. The quantitative data was analyzed using Frequency. The study found that hanger, cradle, stools, chairs, and tables were largely manufactured items among all the rattan-cane products. The annual consumption of imported rattan from India and other countries ranged from 850 MT to 1094 MT. Nepalese rattan fulfills 30% of the total demand. The average marketing margin of rattan products was found to be 37-64%. Nepalese rattan is potential to fulfill 70-80% of the total domestic demand of smaller size strands of rattan.

Livelihood Impacts of Forest Carbon Protection in the Context of Redd+ in Cross River State, Southeast Nigeria

The rate of landcover change linked to deforestation and forest degradation in tropical environments has continued to surge despite a series of forest governance policy instruments over the years. These informed the launch of one of the most important international policies called Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation Plus (REDD+) to combat forest destruction. REDD+ assumes that communities will have increased assets to natural capital which will enhance their livelihood portfolio and mitigate the effects of climate variability and change across biomes. The aim of this study is to ascertain the livelihoods impacts of forest carbon protection within the context of REDD+ in Cross River State, Nigeria. Six forest communities were chosen across three agroecological zones of the State. Anchored on the Sustainable Livelihood Framework, a set of questionnaires were administered to randomly picked households. The results indicate that more than half of the respondents aligned with financial payment and more natural resources as the perceived benefits of carbon protection. More so, a multinomial logistic regression showed that income was the main factor that influenced respondent’s support for forest carbon protection. Analysis of income trends from the ‘big seven’ non-timber forest resources in the region showed increase in Gnetum africanum, Bushmeat, Irvingia gabonensis, Garcinia kola, while carpolobia spp., Randia and rattan cane revealed declining income since inception of REDD+. The recorded increase in household income was attributed to a ban in logging. It is recommended that the forest communities should be more heavily involved in the subsequent phases of the project implementation to avoid carbon leakages.

Value Chain Analysis of Rattan in Nepal

This study highlights the existing situations of production, value addition, marketing and uses of rattan cane in Nepal. Rattan enterprises exist as a small and medium enterprise (SME) within and outside the community forest user groups. The study was designed based on the exploratory research and was carried out in Kailali and Bardiya districts. The main objective was to assess the constraints and opportunities of rattan cane enterprise as well as design business solutions. Systematic random sampling method was followed to take the sampling of CFUGs, households and small and medium enterprises. Primary data was collected through focus group discussions, key informants interview, direct observations, open-ended questionnaires, and inventory of growing stock. Similarly, secondary data was collected from progress reports, Forest Operational Plans, audit reports and records of community forest user groups and Division Forest Offices. Sampling design was ascertained representing sampling units of rattan managed Community Forest User Groups and processing industries. The questionnaire survey was conducted to executive committee members of 8 Community Forest User Groups, 526 households and 12 rattan processing industries/ enterprises. Direct observation and interaction with CFUG and entrepreneurs were another major source of information. The quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS 20 and Microsoft Excel software tools. The identified major constraints concerning the selected value chains were: absence of detailed resource inventory in the approved Forest Operational Plans; inadequate knowledge about resource management, poor capacity to incorporate environmental policy concerns, weak business competitiveness, insufficient information about market and poor marketing knowledge. The study also identified a number of opportunities both in the community as well as enterprise perspective. For example, resource potential and monetary benefits to the community people; contribution in community development, involvement of service providers in forest resource management; employment generation and leveraging ecosystem services. The findings suggested technical and business solutions for the effective value chain of rattan cane.

Flexural Capacity of Rattan Cane Reinforced Concrete Beams

To overcome the dependence on the use of reinforcing steel in concrete, alternative materials are used as reinforcement that is easy and cheap to obtain the resistant of corrosion namely rattan rods. With this material the natural resources can be utilized optimally. This research uses rattan as reinforcement for concrete beams. The test is carried out using a two-point loading method, used 4 types of beams, namely 2 rattan reinforcement beam (BR2), 3 rattan reinforcement (BR3), 4 rattan reinforcement (BR4) and 2 steel reinforcement (BS2) as control beams. The test results show that the addition of 2 times the amount of rattan reinforcement resulted in an increase in flexural capacity of 48.51%. The flexural capacity of rattanreinforced beams is lower than the flexural capacity of steel-reinforced beams by 10%, so the use of rattan as reinforcement in non-structural construction.

The Biomechanical Properties of Rattan Cane in the Design and Fabrication of Prosthetic Foot

In designing prosthetics for amputees, quality and quantity of materials determine device tensile, flexural, extension and compression strength as well as energy distribution when load is applied. Biomechanical properties contribute in combination to any device longevity and resolution force effect to gait expression. Four different dry rattan canes were sampled and subjected to biomechanical analysis, and sample 3 had highest tensile strength with ultimate tensile strength of 11.5N/mm2 revealed when load at break of 668.18N applied, and modulus 1033.90MPa with ductility of 7.33mm were resultant. While average ultimate tensile strength of 8.68N/mm2 was sustained by load at break of 396.66N, modulus of 1119MPa and ductility of 9.5mm was confirmed of rattan cane. Highest flexural strength of 34.43N/mm2 resulted from load at break of 32.82N, modulus 255.65MPa and elongation of 66.81mm was dictated of sample 3, and an average Flexural strength of 26.4 N/mm2 occurred when load at break of 16.04N, modulus 229.16MPa produced elongation (ductility) of 55.1mm on rattan cane. The highest load resistance was shown by sample 3 at compressive strength of 8.79MPa when on load at break of 330N, modulus 622.53MPa resulted. While sample 4 had the highest compressive strength of 9.94MPa when load break at 309N exerted modulus 283.14MPa. Gait analysis revealed terminal swing and heel strike of chosen height 8cm and deformity 0cm while early and mid stance of 0.3cm and 7.7cm were respectively for deformity and height.

Abrasion and Physical Properties of Rattan Cane (<i>Calamus deeratus</i>) Fibre Based Epoxy Composites

The effects of fibre content (5–30 wt%) and fibre treatment on abrasion, water absorption, specific gravity, and density properties of epoxy/rattan cane fibre composites were studied. Epoxy resin reinforced with the alkaline treated rattan cane fibre fibres was produced by compression technique in predetermined proportions. Abrasion and physical properties tests were carried out on the developed composites. The results showed that the reinforced composite samples have better enhancement in all the properties tested than the unreinforced control sample. Least Water Absorption (WA) value of 1.4 % were obtained within the 1 week and 2 week for the reinforced samples. Samples reinforced with 10 wt. % rattan fibres had the highest abrasion resistance, while the sample with 5 wt.% rattan fibre addition had the best water absorption resistance. The products of this research could find applications in automotive fields where exposure to moisture and wear are encountered.

Abrasion and Physical Properties of Rattan Cane (<i>Calamus deeratus</i>) Fibre Based Epoxy Composites

The effects of fibre content (5–30 wt%) and fibre treatment on abrasion, water absorption, specific gravity, and density properties of epoxy/rattan cane fibre composites were studied. Epoxy resin reinforced with the alkaline treated rattan cane fibre fibres was produced by compression technique in predetermined proportions. Abrasion and physical properties tests were carried out on the developed composites. The results showed that the reinforced composite samples have better enhancement in all the properties tested than the unreinforced control sample. Least Water Absorption (WA) value of 1.4 % were obtained within the 1 week and 2 week for the reinforced samples. Samples reinforced with 10 wt. % rattan fibres had the highest abrasion resistance, while the sample with 5 wt.% rattan fibre addition had the best water absorption resistance. The products of this research could find applications in automotive fields where exposure to moisture and wear are encountered.

Strength Characteristics of Bamboo Reinforced Slabs

The construction industry consumes large quantities of composite materials, such as steel, cement and other binding materials. This process emits enormous volume of carbon dioxide leading to global warming and other environmental degradation. As an alternative to steel, bamboo, rattan cane and other agricultural products have been used as reinforcement in different parts of world. However, the application of this non fossil-fuel products has not been exploited to greater extent. In the present study the use of bamboo (bambusa vulgaris) has been adopted as an alternative to steel in fabricating slabs of dimension 1500 mm x 500 mm x 75 mm (length x breadth x thickness). M25 grade with water cement ratio as 0.5 was used. The slabs were tested using Non-Destructive Tests to determine the quality of concrete adopted. Subsequently, destructive tests were carried using a loading frame of capacity 1000 kN. The non-destructive tests and destructive tests were repeated on steel reinforced slabs and control slabs (without any reinforcement). The results indicate that the bamboo reinforced slabs comparatively weaker with respect to steel reinforced slabs and stronger with respect to control slabs. Therefore, it is recommended to adopt BRC slabs for low cost dwellings.

XPS and FTIR studies of fungus-stained Daemonorops margaritae

We explored the discoloration of rattan cane using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). XPS analysis showed that after the cane was stained by Lasiodiplodia theobromae, carbon and oxygen elements and the ratio of oxygen to carbon decreased. Considering atomic binding, C1 and C4 contents increased, while C2 and C3 contents decreased, and the ratio of O2 to O1 decreased sharply. The relative contents of lignin, cellulose and polysaccharides increased and new substances with low O2/O1 ratio occurred. FTIR analysis showed that the absorption peaks of O–H at 3346 cm−1, aliphatic C–H at 2921, 2853 and 1464 cm−1, and C=O at 1723 cm−1, were characteristic peaks of fungal melanin intensified, indicating that cane discoloration was primarily caused by fungal melanin. The absorption peaks characterizing cellulose and lignin like polysaccharides at 800 cm−1, C–H at 1374 cm−1, C–O at 1058 and 1038 cm−1, phenolic hydroxyl at 1245 cm−1, aromatic ether bonds at 1270 cm−1, carbon skeleton at 1608 cm−1 and benzene ring at 1500 cm−1 were enhanced since the fungus mainly consumed the extractives in cane cell lumens and the main composition content increased relatively. Regardless of the discoloration caused by natural fungi or inoculated fungi, the discoloring feature and composition changes were identical except that the fungus-inoculated cane had more melanin.

A new species of Wallacea Baly (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae:Bothryonopini) infesting coconut palm in the Indian Ocean Islands of Andaman & Nicobar.

Wallacea jarawa n. sp. infesting coconut palm (Cocos nucifera L., Arecaceae) in the Indian Ocean Islands of Andaman & Nicobar is described and illustrated. The structure of the endophallic sclerites is illustrated and used in species recognition. Borassus flabellifer L. (Arecaceae) and an unidentified rattan cane (? Calamus sp., Arecaceae) are reported as additional host plants.

Evaluation of plastic composites made with Laccosperma secundiflorum and Eremospatha macrocarpa canes

The feasibility of using rattan canes (Laccosperma secundiflorum and Eremospatha macrocarpa) as reinforced fillers for high density polyethylene based plastic composite production was investigated. Extruded composites were tested for water sorption, tensile and thermal properties. The results obtained indicated that the rattan composites were dimensionally (water absorption: 2,2-21,4% thickness swell: 0,9-5,3%) and thermally stable (Tc: 116,8-118,2°C) and possessed adequate tensile properties (7,3-21,7 MPa). Composites made from L. secundiflorum had higher strength and thermal properties but lower sorption values compared to those of E. macrocarpa. Differences in the densities of the composites and the anatomical structures of the rattans seemed to influence properties of the composites.

English

In this study, the effects of partial replacement of ordinary Portland cement with natural polymers on selected physical and mechanical properties of cement-bonded rattan composites was investigated. Fibrous particles of Laccosperma secundiflorum rattan cane species were mixed with cement mortar at two levels, that is, 2.5 and 5.0%. For experimentation, Portland cement was partially replaced at four levels, first with Cissus populnea gum (0, 10, 20, and 30%) and then natural rubber latex (0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10%). All test specimens were prepared and tested in accordance with ISO 8335 standard. Results obtained showed that the moisture content, density, water absorption, thickness, and bending strength of the composites met the minimum standard requirements, except for samples produced using 30% C. populnea and 5% rattan fibre that fell short of the 9 N/mm2 minimum bending strength requirement. Partial replacement of cement with the two polymers resulted in a general increase in density. Analyses of variance showed that C. populnea gum had a significant effect (p<5%) on water absorption after 24 h of immersion, while natural rubber latex and C. populnea gum had significant effects on thickness swelling at 2 and 24 h of immersion, respectively. Also, C. populnea gum and rattan fibre contents had significant effects on the bending strength of the composites. It was concluded that Portland cement could be partially replaced with up to 20% of C. populnea gum or up to 2.5% of rubber latex in rattan-cement composite manufacture without adverse effects on the basic composite properties tested. Key words: Rattan cane, Cissus populnea, rubber latex, cement, composites.

The Acceptability of Caning Children in Singapore

Child maltreatment is a worldwide phenomenon with far-reaching negative consequences, and physical abuse is its most visible and widely reported form of maltreatment. There is a fine line between nonabusive physical punishment and physical child abuse, and where this line is drawn is often influenced by prevailing cultural practices and child-rearing beliefs. This article focus on Singapore-a modern Asian society that remains rooted in traditional attitudes and practices-as a case study in exploring the boundaries. In particular, the local practice of caning (hitting with a rattan cane) as a disciplinary measure for children, the ambiguity of the law on the issue of physical abuse, and the influence of judicial caning on the acceptability of this common practice are examined. Finally, the possible means of safeguarding children and discouraging the use of physical punishment in the home are discussed.

Bamboo Reinforced Concrete Slabs for Fence Walls

The construction industry consumes large quantities of steel and emits carbon which is a dampener for sustainable growth all over the world. As an alternative to steel, bamboo and rattan cane have been tried as reinforcement in different countries on a very small scale only. This work aims at exploring the methods of adopting bamboo reinforced concrete slabs for erecting fence walls in rural parts of south-India. Presently, fence walls are erected using steel reinforced concrete (SRC) slabs which are cast as a cottage industry, without adhering to any specification. Twenty five (25) bamboo reinforced concrete (BRC) slabs of size 1000 mm by 300 mm by 50 mm (length: width: thickness) were cast in the laboratory using M20 mix ratio. The slabs were tested using (a) ultrasonic instrument and (b) universal testing machine to assess the quality of concrete and deflection values respectively. As a comparative study these tests were repeated on SRC slabs, procured from a vendor. The results reveal that the quality of concrete in BRC slabs was better than that of the SRC slabs. The BRC slabs failed at approximately 50% of the magnitude of load taken by SRC slabs at failure. The deflection and the crack width also followed the same trend. The cost analysis performed indicates that BRC slabs are cheaper by 25 to 30%. Therefore, it is recommended to adopt BRC slabs for erecting fence walls by which more bamboo will be grown, leading to a sustainable growth of the environment.

Rattan Cane Modified with Polyethylene Glycol Melamine-Urea-Formaldehyde Resin

To effectively improve the strength of Plectocomia pierreana rattan cane without reducing its toughness, the cane was impregnated with a new water-soluble melamine-urea-formaldehyde (MUF) resin modified with low-molecular-weight polyethylene glycol (PEG), marked as PMUF. The PMUF synthetic process was optimized using an orthogonal test L9(34). Results showed that the dimensional stability, density, and most mechanical properties of modified canes were improved greatly. Compared with MUF, PMUF imparted the cane with higher anti-swelling efficiency (ASE), modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), and impact toughness. These improvements indicated that PMUF could effectively improve the cane’s dimensional stability and strength, while simultaneously retaining its flexibility. Based on a comprehensive evaluation, the optimum modification conditions were: PEG-400, PEG/Melamine mole ratio of 0.1, step-wise synthesis, and PMUF solution of 30%. The ASE of optimal modified canes reached 65.51%, and its mechanical properties such as the MOE, MOR, compressive modulus, and compressive strength increased by 135.61%, 129.01%, 106.22%, and 88.52%, respectively. Additionally, its impact toughness was only reduced by 6.85%. The PMUF modified P. pierreana canes is comparable to the commercial Daemonorops margaritae canes.