Photodegradation of Bamboo: A Study on Changes in Mechanical Performances

One of the main concerns in using natural materials in construction, such as bamboo, regards their durability. Ultra violet (UV)irradiation is claimed as a damaging agent; therefore, it is important to study its effect. Several studies have shown that bamboo components such as lignin are subjected to photochemical degradation, but it is not well understood how this affects the mechanical properties of bamboo. The aim of this paper is to explore the correlation between photodegradation and bamboo mechanical performance. Bamboo samples were exposed to accelerated UV ageing for different times (from 6 to 360 h) and then subjected to a four-point bending test. Since one of the ways to stabilize bamboo is to thermally treat it, the tests were conducted on natural untreated bamboo and treated bamboo with a traditional flame treatment. Modifications of the chemical features of the material were analyzed with Fourier Trasform Infra Red (FTIR) spectroscopy, while modifications of the morphological features were analyzed byEnvironmental Scanning Electron Microscopy ESEM and optical microscopy observations. The results show that the bending behavior of bamboo is not compromised by UV exposure up to 360 h. In fact, although a progressive degradation of lignin is reported and cracks in the fiber walls are highlighted from micrographs, no effects were found on the fiber length.