Evaluation of Moisture Content in Dendrocalamus strictus Bamboo Specimens Using Standardized Oven Drying Technique

Abstract This work includes an experimental research on determining moisture content in Dendrocalamus strictus bamboo using the standardized oven-drying technique specified in IS 287 (Part 1): 1986. The investigation was carried out in the Civil Engineering Laboratory of K. J. College of Engineering and Management Research (KJCOEMR) in Pune, India. To simulate realistic field circumstances, the bamboo culms were deliberately exposed to natural rainfall for seven days before testing. This ensured that the specimens represented moisture uptake patterns commonly seen in real-world conditions. Three test specimens were meticulously taken from a single 18-foot-long bamboo culm, representing distinct portions of the culm: the bottom (thickest), middle, and top (thinnest). The specimens were weighed in their initial condition and oven-dried at 103 ± 2°C for 48 hours, as per IS guidelines. This technique aided in the removal of free and bound water, enabling for precise determination of the equilibrium moisture content. The study sheds light on how culm location and environmental exposure affect bamboo moisture levels, providing a realistic baseline for future research into mechanical performance, seasoning procedures, and durability development. The findings contribute to a better knowledge of D. strictus as a sustainable construction material and highlight the significance of using standardized moisture evaluation methods to ensure its appropriateness for structural and preservation applications.