Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of Bamboo-Reinforced Epoxy Composites for Lightweight Structural Applications in Nigeria

Increasing interest in sustainable and bio-based engineering materials has generated considerable research attention toward natural fibre composites in developing economies. This study evaluates the mechanical properties of composites fabricated from bamboo fibre extracted from Bambusa vulgaris species harvested in Cross River State, embedded in an epoxy resin matrix. Bamboo fibres were prepared through manual extraction, alkali treatment with 5 percent sodium hydroxide solution, and oven drying. Composite laminates were fabricated by hand lay-up at fibre volume fractions of 20, 30, and 40 percent and cured at room temperature. Tensile strength, flexural strength, impact energy, and hardness were measured following ASTM D638, D790, D256, and D785 standards respectively. The 30 percent fibre volume fraction specimens demonstrated the most favourable combination of properties, achieving a tensile strength of 87 MPa, a flexural strength of 112 MPa, and an impact energy of 14 joules. Alkali treatment was found to improve fibre-matrix interfacial adhesion, as evidenced by smoother fracture surfaces compared to untreated specimens. The specific strength values obtained compared favourably with those of conventional glass fibre composites, indicating potential for use in lightweight structural panels, furniture framing, and partition systems. The study contributes to the body of knowledge supporting the utilisation of indigenous natural resources for engineering applications in Nigeria. Keywords: bamboo fibre composite, epoxy matrix, mechanical properties, natural fibre reinforcement, Cross River State.