Physicochemical properties of different bamboo species and their evaluation for pulping potential

To enhance the role of bamboo as a high-yield timber substitute, this study evaluates the silvicultural potential and pulping properties of Dendrocalamus minor var. amoenus , Bambusa chungii , and Bambusa emeiensis . Analysis of fiber morphology across all species met industrial standards (lengths > 1.6 mm, ratios > 100), with D. minor var. amoenus exhibiting superior morphological characteristics (3 mm length; 174.14 ratio). Chemical profiling and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified B. emeiensis as the premier raw material, driven by its high cellulose (56.31%) and low ash (1.30%) content. Investigation into age-related variations revealed that fiber quality ( P > 0.05) and cellulose content( P < 0.05) decrease with maturity, while lignin content generally increases ( P < 0.05). Although 1-year-old culms offer peak technical properties for papermaking, harvesting at this stage compromises forest regeneration and long-term stand productivity. Consequently, from a resource management perspective, this study recommends a 2-year harvesting cycle to achieve an optimal balance between material quality and sustainable forest utilization. These findings provide a scientific framework for optimizing bamboo plantation management, supporting the transition toward a bamboo-based economy and providing a renewable, low-carbon alternative to traditional wood pulp.