Abstract: The Phyllostachys edulis bamboo fibrous veneers were heat-treated at high temperatures, and then made for BFC (bamboo-based fiber composites). The chemical properties of bamboo fibrous veneers were measured, and surface color, dimensional stability, mechanical properties of BFC were studied. The results pointed-out that chemical degradation occurred, the contents of holocellulose and α-cellulose decreased significantly, mainly in relation to hemicelluloses contents. pH value decreased after thermal treatment, whereas, alkali buffering capacity increased compared with control samples and acid buffering capacity decreased. Thermal treatment can significantly change the surface color of BFC, and the board surface was darkened. The dimensional stability of BFC was significantly improved by reducing thickness swelling and wideness swelling. The mechanical properties were affected with the reduction in MOR (modulus of rupture) and HS (horizontal shear strength) which decreased with increased steam pressure and treatment duration, but MOE (modulus of elasticity) was affected slightly.

Key words: bamboo fibrous veneers, BFC (bamboo-based fiber composites), color, dimensional stability, mechanical properties, chemical property