India International Science Festival Showcases Innovative Bamboo Composite Technology

In a groundbreaking development at the India International Science Festival (IISF) 2023, the spotlight shone on the transfer of Know-How Technology for ‘Bamboo Composites.’ The ceremony, held on the second day of the festival (January 18, 2024), saw the technology transferred to the esteemed materials manufacturing company, M/s Asili Bamboo Products, Meerut. The event was graced by the presence of notable personalities, including Dr Avanish Kumar Srivastava, Director, CSIR-AMPRI, Bhopal, and Akshay Joshi, Director, M/s Asili Bamboo Products, Meerut.

Bamboo Composites: A Sustainable Industrial Breakthrough

The industrial product in focus, bamboo composites, represents a significant leap in sustainable technology. Developed using an environmentally friendly technique and harnessing the natural properties of bamboo, this composite offers a versatile alternative. Bamboo, recognized as a rapidly proliferating grass, matures within 3-4 years, as opposed to the 30-40 years required for teak wood. Additionally, bamboo's exceptional ability to absorb CO2 and release oxygen aids in combating global warming.

Characteristics of Bamboo Composites

The bamboo composite product mirrors the aesthetics of teak wood while boasting superior durability, dimensional stability, high strength, density, mechanical strength, fire resistance, and moisture resistance. This innovative material not only presents a sustainable alternative but also contributes significantly to environmental conservation.

CSIR-AMPRI's Bamboo Composite Manufacturing Technology

The technology developed by CSIR-AMPRI involves a sequential process, including cutting bamboo poles to desired sizes, splitting them into strips, removing knots, and chemical treatment for protection against microbial/natural degradation. The bamboo is then converted into a fibrous form without compromising its natural strength. Subsequent steps involve coating with a pre-polymer and compaction under appropriate heat and pressure to achieve the desired composite shape. The final product can be molded articles, plain sheets, thick boards, beams, and more.

Realizing the Potential: Demonstration Structures and Beyond

Following successful trials at an industrial level, various bamboo composite structures such as panel boards, beams, pillars, partitions, doors, window frames, roofs, and floorings have been developed. A notable "Demonstration Structure (AMPRI’s Bamboo Composite Committee Room 'Baithak')" was erected at the CSIR-AMPRI campus in January 2022, showcasing the versatility and strength of bamboo composites. Recently, a similar structure has been constructed at CSIR-NEIST, Jorhat, Assam.

Beyond Construction: Bamboo Composites in Aerospace

The unique characteristics of bamboo composites extend their application to various sectors, including aerospace. The technology holds the potential to revolutionize the industry by creating wood-like products with a ten times faster harvest cycle. Furthermore, the increased cultivation of bamboo has the potential to generate employment, particularly in rural areas.

The bamboo composite technology is poised to attract and encourage micro, small, and medium enterprises, startups, and more. This aligns with national initiatives such as Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Swasth Bharat Abhiyaan, and Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, contributing to India's sustainable goals and fostering innovation in the pursuit of a greener future.