Comprehensive characterization of Bengal bamboo (Bambusa tulda Roxb.) for advanced material applications: Physical, mechanical, thermal and microstructural insights

We present a comprehensive characterization of Bengal bamboo (Bambusa tulda), a widely used but underexplored bamboo species from Northeast India, for its potential in advanced material applications. Our investigation encompasses the physical, mechanical, thermal and microstructural properties of untreated fibres extracted from the Bengal bamboo. Results highlight significant variability in density, tensile strength and Young's modulus across the fibres, correlating with their chemical composition, which included high cellulose (56.9 %), and moderate lignin (19.3 %) and hemicellulose (15.4 %) content. Advanced analytical techniques, such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), provided insights into the fibre morphology, molecular structure and thermal stability, emphasizing the material's suitability for eco-friendly bio-composites and high-performance engineering applications. Additionally, the integration of Bengal bamboo fibres into traditional lime mortar with jaggery is proposed as a sustainable innovation for heritage restoration. This work underscores the potential of Bengal bamboo as a renewable resource for sustainable materials, bridging traditional practices with modern technological applications.