Review on bamboo treatment in India: A species-specific approach for enhanced durability

Abstract

Bamboo is a versatile material that has been used for construction, furniture, handicrafts etc. since long and occupies an important place in the economy of rural areas. Being a fast-growing species, it provides an excellent alternate structural material. Natural service life of bamboo is only a concern, which is generally few months. However, after preservative treatment, a long service life is expected. Many preservatives and methods were adopted to treat bamboo in India. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the various treatment methods and strategies adopted in the bamboo treatment sector, with a focus on different bamboo species. It covers traditional methods, chemical treatment and other emerging innovative methods for bamboo in India. Additionally, the review explores the efficacy of various treatment, with a particular focus on understanding the treatability behaviour of commercially significant bamboo species.