Analysis of mechanical and anatomical properties of two bamboo species – Thyrostachys siamensis Gamble and Dendrocalamus strictus (Roxb.) Nees (Poaceae)

Abstract

Bamboos are treated to boost their shelf life from the degrading activity of fungal microbes and other insects and to increase their longevity in use and durability by using various chemicals. The present study is vis-a-vis the standardization of two bamboo species Dendrocalamus strictus and Thyrostachys siamensis for a comparative analysis of the mechanical and anatomical properties of samples treated with CCB (Copper Chrome Boron), and BBA (Borax Boric Acid) as well as untreated samples.Samples were tested for both bending and compression; and the parameters such as MOE (Modulus of Elasticity), MOI (Moment of Inertia), Maximum compressive strength, and ultimate strength were analyzed. The anatomical variations arising in the top and bottom sections were also investigated and it has found that the mechanical properties of the species treated with CCB solutions yield a better result in maximum compressive strength and high value of MOI as compared to BBA whereas the samples treated with BBA provides superior performance with respect to MOE. Anatomical examination revealed that the cellular structure and arrangement of vascular bundles are responsible for the increase in time taken for the rate of penetration of chemicals in D.strictus i.e one-half hour as compared to T.siamensis which got treated in 20 minutes. In D.strictus the density of vascular bundles is high so it takes time to get it treated completely as compared to T. siamensis.