Characteristics of rattan composite lumber made of Calamus zollingeri

To increase the efficiency of rattan utilization, the effort has been conducted by producing rattan composite lumber from unused big diameter rattan. The objective of the study was to determine the effects of layer compositions on the properties of rattan composite lumber (RCL). Rattan strips for RCL fabrication were prepared from Calamus zollingeri, bamboo strips were prepared from Gigantochloa robusta and Gigantochloa pseudoarundinaceae, while wood veneer was prepared from Melia azedarach. Laboratory scale of four kinds of RCL, i.e. rattan bare core (RBC), laminated rattan mayan bamboo lumber (MRM), laminated rattan andong bamboo lumber [ARA], and laminated rattan veneer lumber (VRV) with the dimension of 50 cm x 15 cm x thickness of RCL were fabricated using isocyanate adhesive. Results showed that the properties of RCL were significantly affected by layer compositions. Bamboo strips and wood veneer lamination on the surfaces of RBC improved the physical and mechanical properties of RCL. The improvement in thickness swelling of RCL varied from 35% (ARA)-75.7% (VRV), whereas the improvement in MOR, MOE and compression strength of RCL varied from 6.7% (VRV)-54.4% (ARA), from 40.9% (VRV)-276.8% (ARA) and from 12.8% (VRV)-54.1% (ARA), respectively. Laminated rattan-bamboo lumber and laminated rattan veneer lumber were suitable for furniture material.