Researchers at the Department of Science and Technology-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) have found that raw and carbonized Philippine giant bamboo exhibit distinct combustion characteristics, with the findings expected to support the development of biomass energy technologies and renewable energy applications.
The study, titled Comparative Iso-Conversional Kinetics of Raw and Carbonized Dendrocalamus asper (Schult. & Schult.f.) Backer under Inert and Oxidative Atmospheres, examined how carbonization changes the composition of Philippine giant bamboo and influences its stability, decomposition and energy content. The research was published in Advances in Bamboo Science, an international journal published by Elsevier and ranked in the first quartile (Q1) of the SCImago Journal Rank, DOST reported.
According to the researchers, the study provides data that can improve the design of biomass energy systems and help maximise bamboo’s energy potential.
The findings showed that raw bamboo decomposes and burns more easily, while carbonized bamboo is more resistant to heat, ignites at higher temperatures and undergoes a more controlled combustion process. The researchers also established key kinetic parameters for the decomposition of both materials, which can be used in modelling and optimising biomass energy technologies.
Based on the results, the study suggests that raw bamboo is better suited for applications requiring rapid energy release, such as fast pyrolysis, whereas carbonized bamboo is more suitable for stable solid fuel applications, including charcoal-based energy systems.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said scientific research plays an important role in supporting the transition to sustainable energy systems and strengthening the country’s capacity to develop renewable energy solutions.
DOST-FPRDI engineer Celine Rose S. Jimenez-Hopia said a better understanding of bamboo’s thermal properties could contribute to the development of high-value applications for the material and support ongoing biomass energy research.
The research was conducted by DOST-FPRDI researchers Celine Rose S. Jimenez-Hopia, Karlo A. Hopia, Kate D. Navor, Amando Allan D.M. Bondad and Anniver Ryan P. Lapuz.
DOST-FPRDI Director Rico J. Cabangon said publishing research in reputable journals helps share scientific knowledge with a wider audience and increases the visibility and impact of the institute’s work. In 2025, the institute published 24 scientific papers in local and international journals, with several receiving recognition under the International Publication Award category at the 2025 DOST Intellectual Property Awards.
