Effect of Peeling on the Moisture Reduction during Forced Air-drying of Three Round Bamboos

Abstract

Results of an experiment to enhance the drying rate of Bambusa nutans, Dendrocalamus membranaceus and Dendrocalamus strictus in round form are reported. It is seen that by peeling off a small portion of the outer skin, the drying rate of these bamboos can be enhanced without degrade. Results are suggestive of employing this technique by peeling off a larger portion of the outer skin albeit with caution to monitor the drying degrades due to such faster drying. It is seen that Dendrocalamus membranaceus dries fastest of the three bamboos studied as well as brings about the best results in faster drying by employing the peeling technique.