Fabrication of high-strength and antifungal densified bamboo through cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin regulation combined with structural reorganization and functional modification

Bamboo, as a sustainable biomass material, is distinguished by its high cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin content, making it a promising candidate for structural and decorative applications. In this study, bamboo was modified through in situ silanization and hydrothermal synthesis of titanium dioxide (TiO₂), coupled with adjustments in cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin content, followed by densification at varying compression ratios to enhance its mold resistance and mechanical properties. The densification process increased the density of vascular bundles, parenchyma cells, and fiber bundles, reorganizing the bamboo's microstructure into a more uniform and compact arrangement. The evenly distributed TiO₂ particles reinforced the cell walls, significantly improving the bamboo's mechanical performance. Bamboo with a 40 % compression ratio (40 % CRB) exhibited optimal properties, achieving a modulus of rupture (MOR) of 225.5 MPa and a modulus of elasticity (MOE) of 17.14 GPa, representing increases of 57 % and 96 %, respectively, compared to untreated bamboo. Additionally, the water contact angle (CA) increased from 39° in untreated bamboo to 144° in bamboo with a 50 % compression ratio (50 % CRB), indicating enhanced hydrophobicity. Antifungal tests showed a 0 % infection rate for 40 % CRB against Aspergillus niger and Trichoderma viride after 30 days. This cost-effective and eco-friendly modification method leverages bamboo's inherent properties to enhance mechanical strength, hydrophobicity, and mold resistance, positioning bamboo as a viable material for sustainable development in construction, decoration, and other engineering applications.