REFORMED BAMBOO AND REFORMED BAMBOO ALUMINUM COMPOSITE .1. MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUE, STRUCTURE AND STATIC PROPERTIES

A new technique has been developed which aims at changing the form of bamboo from its natural circular cross-section into a plate for convenient use. The manufacturing technique covers three major processes: softening, compression and fixture. The microstructure of reformed bamboo was studied both qualitatively and quantitatively. The mechanical properties of reformed bamboo were tested and the results show a remarkable increase compared with normal bamboo. Although the reformed bamboo has many advantages, such as higher specific properties, inexpensive cost, etc., the composition of reformed bamboo with aluminium alloy sheets further improves the comprehensive performance.