Analysis of the Effect of Brackish Water on the Mechanical Properties of 'Gigantochloa apus' Bamboo Laminated Board for Ship Hull Material

Abstract

The maritime industry faces increasing pressure to use sustainable materials for ship construction, especially in brackish water, which is common in estuarine regions of Indonesia. As an alternative to steel, bamboo laminated board composites represent a notable innovation. This article comprehensively analyzes the mechanical properties of bamboo laminated boards made from 'Gigantochloa apus' when exposed to brackish water conditions. The research includes a series of experiments involving the number of bamboo laminate layers, immersion periods, and immersion environment conditions. The mechanical properties of the bamboo laminated boards – including impact, bending, and tensile strength – were carefully evaluated and compared to the Indonesian Classification Bureau (BKI) standard as a safety requirement. The results reveal a complex relationship among the number of layers, immersion time, brackish water temperature, and the performance of bamboo laminated boards. Our research indicates that 'Gigantochloa apus' bamboo laminated boards exhibit remarkable resistance to brackish water, maintaining structural integrity and resilience over time, in contrast to other materials. As immersion time varied, the mechanical strength properties of all layer variations decreased by approximately 5 to 9 percent. According to data analysis and comparison with BKI standard safety regulations, apus bamboo laminated board is suitable for ship hulls.