Selected Physical and Mechanical Properties of Microwave Heat Treated Rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis)

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to evaluate some of physical and mechanical properties of rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) as function of microwave heat treatment process. The specimens were heat treated at three temperature levels of 150 °C, 180 °C, and 220 °C for 20 min in a small microwave oven connected to a computer. Bending characteristics, namely modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR) as well as hardness of the samples were tested. Dimensional stability in the form of swelling and water absorption of the specimens were also determined. Based on the findings in this work it appears that microwave can be used successfully for heat treatment of rubberwood. Overall mechanical properties of the samples were adversely influenced by the treatment. MOE, MOR and hardness values of the samples treated at a temperature of 220 °C had 2.37, 3.69, and 2.12 times reduced than those of control samples, respectively. Dimensional stability of the heat treated samples as a result of 2-h and 24-h water soaking improved. Micrographs take from scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) revealed that certain amount of damage took place in the cellwall of the treated specimens. Overall discoloration on the samples due to microwave heat treatment was found insignificant.