Microwave heating for lignocellulosic material

Microwave technology has been evaluated for improving wood permeability prior to timber processing. However, microwave application for other lignocellulosic materials from forest (i.e. bamboo and rattan) has not been studied intensively. This paper examines the possible use of microwave heating for bamboo and rattan. Bamboo modification was carried out in 60 kW microwave devices, while rattan modification was conducted in modified domestic microwave. Result shows microwave technology reduces bamboo's moisture content and enhances bamboo permeability using specifically design applicator for surface treatment. Temperatures were recorded on the bamboo surfaces followed by gradual temperature dissipation with increasing depth along the culm wall. Similarly, modified domestic microwave (1 kW) reduces rattan's moisture content significantly and improves rattan bending ability. Rapid and clean rattan drying potentially substitutes conventional rattan drying pretreatment. Bending ability improvement is useful for rattan furniture industries. In conclusion, microwave technology could be applied for bamboo and rattan processing with various powers and heating time to enhance processing ability.