BioResources (E-Journal)
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Shear Strength of Wood Linear Friction Welded Joints: Experimental Study and Numerical Analysis
Wood linear friction welding can be regarded as an environment-friendly and efficient wood connection technology. In this study, the welding depth, instead of welding time, was selected to control the whole welding process. The combination of welding amplitude of 1.7 mm, welding depth of 0.8 mm and welding pressure of 8 MPa was shown to be optimal by orthogonal experiments. Then the single factor tests were carried out to study the influence of welding amplitude, welding depth, and welding pressure on the shear strength of the welded joints. Finally, the effect of joint form and lap length on shear strength of welded joints was simulated and predicted with Cohesive Zone Models (CZM). It was found that the double lap joint had the greatest maximum shear strength compared with other three kinds of joints and shear strength of double lap joints would be enhanced with the increase of lap length almost linearly from 5 to 25 mm
Finite Element Analysis of Structural Safety and Support Reinforcement Efficacy in a Large Old Zelkova Tree: A Case Study of a Natural Monument
The structural safety of a natural monument tree was evaluated using the finite element method (FEM), assuming the tree’s material properties to be isotropic. This research involved quantifying external forces, gravity, snow, and wind loads, and analyzing the resulting stress and displacement of the tree. The effectiveness of support structures in improving the tree’s overall structural stability was also investigated. The results show that the greatest displacement and stress occur under snow load conditions. The highest stress was observed in branch D (13.63 MPa) under snow load without any support structure. When this stress was compared with the bending strength of the Zelkova tree’s branches (69.7 MPa), it was found that the tree has a safety margin of 56.1 MPa. Furthermore, when the current support structure positions were considered, branch F, which is supported, exhibited a significant reduction in displacement (by 30% to 42%) and stress (by 84% to 92%) compared to conditions without support. Conversely, branch D, which lacks a support structure, showed no reduction in displacement or stress. These results show that FEM simulation can contribute to the review of reinforcement facility installation to ensure the stability of large old trees
Pulp Production from Pineapple Leaf Waste for Sustainable Paper Manufacturing
The agricultural sector generates considerable amounts of waste annually, particularly during harvest periods. This study explored the potential of pineapple (Ananas comosus Merr.) leaves, a cellulose-rich byproduct of the pineapple industry, as a sustainable raw material for paper production. Mechanical strength, renewability, and cost-effectiveness make pineapple leaves a promising alternative for eco-friendly papermaking. The research focused on analyzing the chemical composition of the leaves, optimizing the pulping process, and evaluating the physical properties of the resulting paper. Utilizing TAPPI test methods, the chemical analysis revealed high concentrations of holo-cellulose (82.6%), alpha-cellulose (69.7%), and hemicellulose (12.9%), along with relatively low levels of solvent extractives (14.7%) and ash content (4.9%). The physical attributes of the produced paper include a tensile index of 50.1 Nm/g, a tear index of 6.33 mNm²/g, and a burst index of 3.31 kPa·m²/g. Additionally, the brightness of the unbleached paper was measured at 28.8 % ISO, which was increased to 69.7 % ISO after the bleaching process. Pineapple leaves possess more alpha cellulose than most other wood and non wood sources and paper made from these leaves has shown better physical properties. These findings underscore the potential of pineapple leaves as a viable alternative pulp source for the paper industry, contributing to the advancement of sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing practices
Mechanical Characterization of Epoxy Composites Reinforced with a Blend of Hibiscus rosa and Snake Grass Fibers Enhanced with Neem Gum Powder
Mechanical and physical characteristics were studied of epoxy composites reinforced with different blends of the Hibiscus (H) rosa plant fiber and snake (S) grass fiber, with and without the addition of neem gum powder. The incorporation of the snake grass fiber significantly enhanced the mechanical properties, with the biocomposite 20S10H exhibiting the highest tensile strength (56 MPa), flexural strength (87 MPa), hardness (86 SD), and impact strength (6.98 J), due to the synergistic effect of snake grass fiber and neem gum as a binder. The interlaminar shear strength also showed an improvement, reaching a maximum of 6.52 MPa for the biocomposite 20S10H, reflecting enhanced interfacial bonding and reduced void content. Water absorption (40%) decreased with the increased proportion of snake grass fiber and the inclusion of neem gum, with the lowest absorption recorded for the biocomposite 30S30H, indicating reduced moisture uptake. In contrast, biocomposites with a higher proportion of Hibiscus rosa fiber exhibited higher water absorption. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study of the fracture surfaces demonstrated enhanced fiber-matrix adhesion and decreased porosity in biocomposites with neem gum, validating the neem gum’s contribution to better interfacial bonding and overall biocomposite efficacy
Lignin Reattachment to Pulp Fibres During Brownstock Washing: The Role of Sodium Sulfate
This study investigates the crucial role of sodium sulfate in pulp washing liquors and its impact on the reattachment of lignin to pulp fibres during the brownstock washing process. The dissolution of lignin during washing and its potential redeposition onto the pulp fibres is influenced by various factors. Three distinct types of pulp - unbleached, bleached, and cotton linters - were used to explore these effects. The washing experiments were conducted using industrial wash liquor and were repeated further with the addition of sodium sulfate. The resulting products of the washing process, including the liquor discharge and the washed pulp, were thoroughly evaluated. Analytical techniques, such as UV measurements of lignin content in the liquor discharge and characterization of the pulp, were employed to assess the outcomes. The findings reveal that the addition of sodium sulfate to the washing liquor results in an increase in its conductivity and ionic strength. Moreover, it was observed that lignin reattachment to pulp fibres was significantly greater when washing was performed with sodium sulfate addition. Among the pulp studied, unbleached kraft pulp exhibited the highest degree of lignin reattachment, followed by bleached kraft pulp, with cotton linters showing the least
Integrating Color Theory in Eco-Friendly Design of Reconstituted Decorative Thin Wood
With the increasing emphasis on green home furnishing and ecological environment, reconstituted decorative thin wood is being used more widely as a new material with excellent performance and beautiful appearance. This paper discusses applying the color theory of reconstituted decorative thin wood from the perspective of green ecology. First, academic achievements are summarized related to reconstituted decorative thin wood and its color theory, exploring its research direction and future development trends. Secondly, this paper outlines the classical color system and theory, at the same time, based on the K-means algorithm, color extraction of reconstituted decorative thin wood samples, and establishes the color relationship network model. Using the basic theory and design method of prototype typology, the texture types of reconstituted decorative thin wood are classified, and the texture characteristics and texture composition of reconstituted artistic modeling thin wood are studied. Through data analysis of 96 questionnaires and summarizing and analyzing the results of the respondents' perceived preferences for the experimental samples, the feasibility of the restructured decorative thin wood design scheme was verified based on the CNCSCOLOR color palette theory of color matching design. Then the degree of choice and the degree of willingness to purchase of the restructured decorative thin wood scheme and its application of the customized closet effect were evaluated through the Likert Scale
Effect of Sal Wood and Babool Sawdust Fillers on the Mechanical Properties of Snake Grass Fiber-Reinforced Polyester Composites
The mechanical, moisture absorption, and chemical bonding properties were studied for hybrid polyester composites reinforced with snake grass (SG) fiber and Sal wood (S) and Babool (B) sawdust fillers. Composites were fabricated via compression molding with 60% polyester resin and varying filler-fiber ratios. Mechanical tests showed tensile strength increasing from 38 MPa (S1) to 56 MPa (S4), flexural strength peaking at 85 MPa (S4), and maximum hardness of 84 Shore D (S4). Impact strength reached 6.98 J (S4). Water absorption decreased with higher filler content, with S4 absorbing only 21%. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed improved interfacial bonding in S3 and S4, while S1 showed voids and fiber pull-out. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed enhanced chemical interactions in samples with optimized filler-fiber ratios, particularly in S4, contributing to its superior performance. The filler-fiber composition was optimized to maximize mechanical strength, moisture resistance, and chemical bonding, demonstrating the potential of these sustainable composites for durable, eco-friendly applications
Growth of Moringa oleifera Lam. as Affected by Biochar Treatment Modified via Inter-species Feedstock Selection
To explore the impact of wood biochar on the early growth of tree seedlings, biochar was produced from the branches of tree species deemed as waste wood: tamarix, acacia, and eucalyptus. This biochar was mixed with agricultural soil at various concentrations. Subsequently, Moringa oleifera seedlings were planted in the biochar-soil mixture and monitored over an eight-week period. Then the data were collected and statistically analysed. All of the biochar treatments applied to Moringa oleifera seeds resulted in a notable reduction in germination rates. In particular, the control treatment—where no biochar was used—showed a significantly higher rate of seed germination compared to the various biochar treatments that were made from different feedstock species and processed at varying pyrolysis temperatures, highlighting the diverse impact of biochar characteristics on seed development. Nonetheless, the biochar-soil mixture retained higher levels of water and promoted greater biomass and relative plant growth. Thus, it is crucial to interpret these results within an environmental context to gain a comprehensive understanding. Selecting appropriate branch wood feedstocks may enhance the production of suitable biochar products for specific applications. Pretreatment techniques for feedstock before biochar processing might be necessary
Bacterial Cellulose: A Novel Antibacterial Material for Biomedical Applications, Wound Healing, and Sustainable Infection Control
Bacterial cellulose (BC) is an emerging biopolymer synthesized by specific microbial strains, such as Komagataeibacter xylinus. It is distinguished by its ultrafine nanofibrillar architecture, exceptional mechanical strength, high water-holding capacity, and inherent biocompatibility. Unlike plant-derived cellulose, BC is chemically pure and free from lignin and hemicellulose, making it especially attractive for biomedical use. Recently, BC has gained prominence as a multifunctional platform for applications in wound care, antimicrobial therapies, tissue engineering, and sustainable infection control. Recent advances in bioengineering and materials science have significantly broadened the functional landscape of BC. Through incorporating antibacterial agents, such as silver nanoparticles, chitosan, essential oils, or antibiotics, BC composites demonstrate potent antimicrobial efficacy while maintaining safety and biocompatibility. These hybrid materials address the critical need for novel, biodegradable alternatives to synthetic polymers in the fight against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This brief review critically examines the latest progress in BC production technologies, structural functionalization strategies, and clinical applications, with particular emphasis on its antibacterial properties and regenerative potential. The molecular mechanisms underlying its interaction with microbial cells and host tissues are also explored. Furthermore, the review outlines key challenges, such as large-scale manufacturing, regulatory hurdles, and clinical validation, and presents forward-looking perspectives on how BC could revolutionize healthcare by supporting next-generation biomaterials and sustainable therapeutic solutions
Biotic Stress Responses and Oxidative Defense Mechanisms of Pinus brutia against Pine Processionary Moth Infestations
Defense mechanisms were studied for Pinus brutia, a cornerstone Turkish forest tree, against pine processionary moth damage by Thaumetopoea pityocampa (Den. & Schiff.) and Thaumetopoea wilkinsoni Tams 1926 moth species. This research addressed the significance of Pinus brutia in afforestation and breeding. The expression of enzymatic antioxidants (SOD, POD, CAT, APX) and photosynthetic pigments (chlorophylls and carotenoids) at a clonal level in response to insect damage was assessed. Approximately 84 needle samples from 28 Pinus brutia clones from the Antalya Düzlerçamı Brutian Pine Seed Orchard were studied. Samples were collected in February and August 2021 to capture responses during key insect activity periods. These samples were then analyzed for pigment concentrations and antioxidant activities. Statistical analysis revealed that sampling period and clone significantly affected chlorophyll and carotenoid levels. The POD and SOD activities were primarily influenced by the sampling period. However, CAT activity was affected by the number of insect pouches, the period, and the clone. APX activity was significantly impacted by both pouch number and sampling period. These findings offer insights into how seasonal changes and genetic variations modulate P. brutia clones' defense mechanisms against pine processionary moth infestations, informing future forest management