Abstract:

Investigation was carried out for water penetration into moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens), grown in Fuyang, Zhejiang Province. Specimens were grouped with age classes of 1～4 years. The immersion time for maximum water uptake (MWU) ranged from 140 to 168 days. Group with older age took a longer time to get its MWU. About 90% of the voids in specimens were filled with water after the penetration had been executed for five weeks. A formula for MWU was developed and predicted MWU corresponded well to the measured ones. Empirical equation was put forward for water penetration into moso bamboo by polynomial regression. The fraction of water uptake in specimen was calculated from the empirical equation. There was a reasonable agreement between calculated and measured values of the fractions for four age classes of specimens. Discussion was also done concerning it that the accuracy of weighing was limited by the mass decrease caused by water evaporation from specimen surfaces.

Key words: water penetration, moso bamboo, bamboo wood