The effects of alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) and zinc borate (ZB) on the resistance of corn stalk fiber (CSF)-reinforced high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites to biodegradation were examined. Both biocides could inhibit termites, mold fungi, and wood-decay fungi, even at high CSF formulations (i.e., 60%). Additionally, ACQ enhanced the resistance of the composite materials to certain biotic stresses better than ZB. The CSF/HDPE composites treated with ACQ at the 3.0% level exhibited a superior performance against termites, white rot fungi, and brown rot fungi. ACQ treatment at the 1% level was optimal for inhibiting soft rot fungi. Furthermore, mold growth was not observed on ACQ-treated CSF/HDPE samples. The untreated CSF/HDPE composites were more susceptible to mold infections and decay than the untreated poplar/HDPE composites, likely because of an incomplete removal of the pith. The chemical features of the corn stalk may also have influenced these differences, but this possibility will need to be explored in future investigations. Furthermore, the CSF component of CSF/HDPE composites is highly susceptible to fungal attacks, with the soft rot fungus inducing the largest mass losses, followed by the white rot fungus, and then the brown rot fungus.
Layered cake also known as kek lapis is very synonym to Sarawak and very famous souvenir to tourist who travels to Sarawak. The exclusive savour and colourful layered design attribute has secure its constant demand all the year especially during festive seasons. The products are not only catered for Sarawak but also exported to Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei. The industry contributes almost RM 3 million a year to the entrepreneurs. However, the tedious traditional process is unable to cope with the demand. Manual process is highly dependent on labours and the labours skills has direct influence on the quality of cakes produced. The development follows systematic engineering design process. Concept of sectional base mechanism has been chosen for the machine. The automatic machine has includes all basic processes namely filling of mixture to the baking tray, baking, layered, pressing and cooling. The proposed model is expected to produce 216 moulds per day, which is 430% improvement from the current production rate (50 moulds). Estimated manufacturing cost is about RM 37,000 only.
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