Search Results (2)

Anatomical, chemical, and physical properties are critical for optimizing bamboo applications. This study evaluated the radial variability of these properties in four bamboo species (Guadua chacoensis, Dendrocalamus strictus, Bambusa nutans, and Dendrocalamus asper) to assess their potential as sustainable raw materials. Anatomical analysis revealed significant radial gradients: fiber wall thickness and lignin content peaked in the peripheral region (e.g., 30.40% lignin in D. strictus), while carbohydrate content was highest in the central region (69.15% in D. asper). Basic density varied radially, with the highest values in G. chacoensis (835 kg/m³) and B. nutans (858 kg/m³). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified density and chemical composition as key discriminators among species. Dendrocalamus strictus emerged as the most promising species for biochar production, exhibiting high gravimetric yield (31.14%), thermal stability, and a mesoporous structure (120.154 m²/g surface area). The biochar’s high elemental carbon (89.66%), calculated fixed carbon (84.97%), crystallinity index (30.16%), and low volatile content (6.83%) suggest potential for use as a soil conditioner for carbon sequestration, although direct agronomic validation (e.g., soil, plant, or microbial assays) is still required. A techno-economic assessment (TEA) demonstrated its commercial viability, projected a profit of approximately US$ 89/ton and US$ 1107/hectare per year under a 3-year rotation cycle, assuming a unified market price of US$ 120/ton. This estimate is preliminary and does not include sensitivity analysis, which is suggested for future work. This study underscores D. strictus as a dual-purpose resource, combining ecological benefits (e.g., soil enhancement) with economic feasibility, advancing sustainable agro-industrial applications of bamboo. Full article

Bamboo constitutes a family of plants that are very promising and interesting as renewable materials for both large and small structure construction. To be used as an alternative to traditional materials; the understanding of its morphology and mechanical behavior is of crucial importance. As the distribution of fibers and vascular bundles differs for each type of bamboo; several bamboo types have been characterized: Phyllostachys aurea (PA), Arundinaria amabilis (AA) and Dendrocalamus strictus (DS). Morphological analysis has been performed by optical (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Differences in density; surface morphology and wall thickness have been found. In fact; PA and AA have shown a great morphological regularity; while DS presents the greatest thickness; to the point that it can be considered full culm. The plant’s own ducts constitute a very important factor for future impregnations and the optimization of mechanical properties for structure construction. Full article