PENGGUNAAN SERAT BAMBU UNTUK PEMBUATAN PAPAN SEMEN SERAT

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the performance of cement boards reinforced with bamboo fibers and lime additives. The research focuses on the changes in mechanical properties (flexural strength) and physical properties (density and visual quality) caused by variations in fiber content, fiber– cement ratio, and fiber length. The experiment was conducted through laboratory testing involving manual mixing, hydraulic pressing, and 28-day curing. Samples were tested according to SNI 03-2104-1991 and ASTM C1185 standards. The results indicate that bamboo fiber content of 11–15% combined with 3–10% lime produces the most stable density and highest flexural strength. The optimum sample, composition I (11.8% fiber and 3.9% lime), reached a flexural strength of 8.26 MPa and density of 1.70 g/cm³. The findings highlight an optimum fiber threshold; exceeding 20% fiber increases porosity, lowers density, and reduces flexural performance. Overall, this study demonstrates the strong potential of local bamboo fibers as an environmentally friendly reinforcement for cement board production.