Enhance of strengthening phase and chemical bonding in bamboo scrap/magnesium oxychloride composites by sodium silicate

Sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) was used as a modifier to improve the properties of bamboo scrap/magnesium oxychloride (BS/MOC) composites. The results showed that the strength phase 5 was increased, and gel-like 5MgO-MgCl2-8H2O crystals were formed in these BS/MOC composites with added Na2SiO3 and thus, the mechanical strength enhanced. In addition, Na2SiO3 formed chemical bonds with BS/MOC composites to prevent 5-phase crystal hydrolysis and enhance composites water resistance. The mechanical strength and water resistance were shown to reach a maximum after curing for 28 d with 0.5% Na2SiO3.