DOST studying ways to make fire-resistant bamboo

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is developing various research initiatives to make bamboo, a sustainable construction material, more fire-resistant. 

In a statement released Friday, DOST said the deadly fire in Hong Kong last November has sparked talks about the use of bamboo in construction and its fire safety. 

DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) Director Dr. Rico J. Cabangon said that bamboo, like any other organic material, is naturally combustible. 

“(But) with proper testing, drying, treatment, and the use of fire-safety technologies, the risk of ignition and flame spread can be significantly reduced,” Mr. Cabangon said. 

Among the ongoing research at DOST-FPRDI to help bamboo become more fire-resistant is the development of a fire-retardant coating using nano-sized montmorillonite clay. 
The Institute said the material is a low-cost and less toxic alternative to imported chemicals. 

The coating forms a protective layer that delays ignition and limits flame spread. 

Initially developed for wood products, the technology is now being explored for bamboo applications. 

DOST-FPRDI is also developing a bamboo-derived cellulose nanofiber aerogel sourced from kauayan-tinik (Bambusa spinosa Roxb.). 

This material is designed as a safer and more sustainable fire-retardant additive for construction insulation, including bamboo-based applications. It is considered safe for both humans and the environment. 

To support these research initiatives, DOST-FPRDI operates its Fire Testing Laboratory, which evaluates the fire resistance of wood and non-wood materials, including bamboo. 

The facility exposes samples to a small flame for 15 or 30 seconds to assess ignitability and combustibility. 

Mr. Cabangon said that the said initiatives reflect the Institute’s proactive steps to address fire safety concerns over bamboo in construction. 

“Through expanding our testing services and research, we aim to ensure that bamboo remains a credible material for building and construction,” he furthered. 

DOST-FPRDI also emphasized that using bamboo in construction remains a more sustainable option than timber, as it can be harvested much earlier and absorbs carbon dioxide throughout its growth. It is also generally more cost-effective than metals and other conventional materials. 

Meanwhile, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said the agency runs long-term programs to support the safe use of bamboo in construction and other applications. 

DOST-FPRDI is a government research institute dedicated to developing and improving forest and wood-based products, including bamboo. — Edg Adrian A. Eva