Fungi-resistant bamboo scrimber with enhanced dimensional stability and mechanical properties through in situ deposition of copper-based particles

Bamboo scrimber, constructed from bamboo bundles, is prone to microbial attack in adverse outdoor conditions. To enhance the mold resistance, dimensional stability, and mechanical properties of bamboo scrimber simultaneously, bamboo bundles were impregnated with a copper ammonia complex solution (CAS), and copper-based particles were deposited in situ on the surface of bamboo fibers. With optimized processing parameters, the water absorption rate, thickness swelling rate, and width swelling rate of the CAS-modified bamboo scrimber saw reductions of 57.0 %, 67.6 %, and 66.7 %, respectively. Meanwhile, the stiffness, bending, and compressive strength parallel to the grain increased by 25.0 %, 14.5 %, and 22.2 %, respectively. Moreover, the CAS-modified bamboo scrimber significantly enhanced resistance to Penicillium citrinum and Trichoderma viride . In conclusion, the in situ deposition of copper-based particles on bamboo fibers is an efficient and promising approach to lower the risk of biological deterioration of bamboo scrimber. • Copper-based particles successfully deposited on bamboo fibers after treatment. • Mold resistance against P. citrinum and T. viride was largely enhanced. • Chemical changes also led to increased dimensional stability and mechanical strength.