Bamboo

Bamboo is classified as a type of grass and its stem is converted into timber products, paper, fibres and textiles. In addition, the woody tissue, like that of tree trunks, provides the feedstock for cellulose based plastics and fibres, such as viscose and cellulose acetate (CA). It grows around the world in a variety of climates, from cold mountainous regions to tropical areas, and is available from sustainably managed sources. It’s speed of growth and ease of harvesting means it can be very cost-effective.

Bamboo contains many of the same ingredients as wood: it is a natural composite made up of polysaccharides (cellulose and hemicellulose) and lignin. However, bamboo grows differently, with a denser packing of the cellulose fibres towards the outside of its hollow stem. This naturally optimised structure is far more efficient in terms of strength-to-weight than a solid rod-like tree trunk. This allows bamboo to grow very fast, while remaining lightweight and resistant to wind and other natural forces. It is suitable for structural uses after 3-5 years of growth.

The drawbacks of bamboo, other than natural variation, are its vulnerability to water absorption and decay. Bamboo is perishable and will last only a short time outdoors without suitable treatment. Additionally, the rich starch content provides a source of food for insects and fungus. To counter this, bamboo is impregnated with chemicals, which affects its sustainability.