This volume provides a review of the state-of-the-art and state-of-practice for characterisation of bamboo materials, prepared by the RILEM Technical Committee 322-MCB. The focus is on full-culm (i.e., round pole) bamboo while recognising the use of full-culm bamboo as feedstock for engineered bamboo products. It provides a detailed commentary of existing and proposed materials test methods, including draft language for proposed new methods. A thorough review of issues affecting durability and their assessment is presented, including a review and recommendations for preservation of bamboo. Finally, the volume addresses the quantification of the sustainability credentials of bamboo. Taken together, it provides building professionals with the tools to effectively use and advocate for the use of bamboo materials in construction and infrastructure projects.

This volume provides a review of the state-of-the-art and state-of-practice for characterisation of bamboo materials, prepared by the RILEM Technical Committee 322-MCB. The focus is on full-culm (i.e., round pole) bamboo while recognising the use of full-culm bamboo as feedstock for engineered bamboo products. It provides a detailed commentary of existing and proposed materials test methods, including draft language for proposed new methods. A thorough review of issues affecting durability and their assessment is presented, including a review and recommendations for preservation of bamboo. Finally, the volume addresses the quantification of the sustainability credentials of bamboo. Taken together, it provides building professionals with the tools to effectively use and advocate for the use of bamboo materials in construction and infrastructure projects.