Hydrothermal synergy effects on the dimensional stability and compressive behavior of bamboo scrimber

This study investigated two types of bamboo scrimber (BS) derived from bundles treated with saturated steam at 140°C (LC) and superheated steam at 200°C (DC), under various hydrothermal conditions. The effects of hydrothermal synergy on the physical and mechanical behaviors of the BSs were analyzed, as well as their variations in microstructure and chemical composition. This study aims to investigate the variations and mechanisms of hydrothermal synergy on the dimensional stability and compressive behavior of BS, providing a theoretical basis for expanding its engineering applications. The results showed that the synergistic effects of water and heat significantly influenced their physical and mechanical properties. In terms of dimensional stability, as the hydrothermal temperature and treatment duration increased, both BSs exhibited an upward trend. Notably, the dimensional stability of the DC group was superior to that of the LC group. As treatment duration and temperature increased, the plasticity of BS was improved slightly, but compressive strength decreased. After 4 h of boiling, strength retention dropped to 50%. Hydrothermal synergy induced varying degrees of changes in the composition and microstructure of BS. It was notable that an appropriate carbonization for bamboo bundles enhanced their use in diverse applications, from household use to construction.