Peningkatan Mutu Bambu Melalui Modifikasi Kimia Dan Panas Menggunakan Bahan Non-Biosida (Asam Sitrat dan Gliserol)

Abstract

Bambu merupakan hasil hutan bukan kayu yang memiliki potensi besar untuk dimanfaatkan di sektor konstruksi dan industri kreatif. Pertumbuhan bambu yang cepat, harga yang relatif lebih murah, dan mudah dibentuk menjadi keunggulan bambu, namun kualitas sifat fisis, mekanis, dan ketahanan terhadap organisme perusak yang rendah menjadi salah satu tantangan pemanfaatan bambu. Penelitian ini bertujuan meningkatkan mutu bambu melalui modifikasi kimia menggunakan bahan non-biosida, yaitu asam sitrat dan gliserol dengan metode boucherie, disertai perlakuan panas. Parameter yang diuji meliputi retensi, penambahan berat (Weight Percent Gain), kadar air, kerapatan, daya serap air (water uptake), stabilitas dimensi (Anti Swelling Efficiency), serta sifat mekanik berupa Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) dan Modulus of Rupture (MOR). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa modifikasi ini mampu meningkatkan kerapatan, stabilitas dimensi, dan sifat mekanik (MOE dan MOR), serta menurunkan kadar air dan kemampuan menyerap air. Modifikasi kimia dengan bahan non biosida yaitu asam sitrat dan gliserol, serta perlakuan panas mampu meningkatkan mutu bambu sehingga dapat memperluas potensi pemanfaatannya.

Bamboo is a non-timber forest product with significant potential for use in the construction and creative industries. Its fast growth, relatively low cost, and ease of shaping are among its advantages. However, its low physical and mechanical properties, along with poor resistance to biodegradation, remain key challenges in its utilization. This study aimed to improve bamboo quality through chemical modification using non-biocidal agents, namely citric acid and glycerol, applied via the Boucherie method and followed by heat treatment. The evaluated parameters included retention, weight percent gain (WPG), moisture content, density, water uptake, dimensional stability (Anti-Swelling Efficiency), and mechanical properties, specifically the Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) and Modulus of Rupture (MOR). The results demonstrated that the modification effectively increased density, dimensional stability, and mechanical strength (MOE and MOR), while reducing moisture content and water absorption. Chemical modification using citric acid and glycerol as non-biocidal agents, combined with heat treatment, successfully enhanced bamboo quality, thereby expanding its potential applications.