Bamboo splits and slivers (2)
Citation
Indian Plywood Industries Research Institute (IPIRTI). 2001. Bamboo splits and slivers (2). INBAR, Beijing, China
Permanent link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/10568/64368
Abstract/Description
Bamboo splits and slivers are the primary materials used for weaving a wide range of products
Notes
What are Bamboo Splits and Slivers?
Bamboo splits and slivers are longitudinal sections of a bamboo pole (culm). Splits are the full
thickness of the culm wall and have the green outer layer still attached. Slivers are thin, narrow
sections of bamboo wood. They are the primary materials used for weaving a wide range of
products. On a small scale they may be used for handicraft items and objects of daily use. On a large scale, one of the most useful products they can be woven into are the mats that are used to
produce bamboo matboard.
How are they produced?
Splits and slivers may be produced by hand splitting or mechanical splitting. Hand splitting is
suitable for small-scale production and there is a wide range of tools available, both traditional
and modern. Automated splitting machines are more suitable for large-scale production of slivers.
Fresh bamboo culms are passed through a series of machines that produce splits of successively
smaller sizes until the desired size is reached.
What is the market for bamboo splits and slivers?
The market for bamboo splits is limited, because they are of limited use. However, bamboo
slivers are the primary raw material for mat making and the demand for mats is closely related to
the demand for matboard. Matboard is a versatile type of plywood and its markets are increasing
rapidly. Often the splitting and slivering unit is established with very close linkages to the
matboard factories and weaving facilities and weaving staff may be included in the unit. In some
instances the splitting and slivering unit may be a subsidiary part of the matboard factory.
What is the role of a bamboo splitting and slivering unit in rural
development?
The unit requires considerable supplies of raw bamboos, the management and harvesting of
which increases employment opportunities for farmers and foresters. Establishing new plantations
will benefit the environment and substituting bamboo for wood in products will help conserve
natural forests. The unit offers employment opportunities for unskilled, semi-skilled and
technically trained personnel for its operation and management. A large unit established with
mat-weaving facilities included can provide employment for up to 400 people.
How do I establish a bamboo splitting and slivering unit?
A regular supply of raw bamboos, labour, electricity and an established market for the slivers, or
the mats if mat weaving is included in the unit, is required. A large bamboo splitting and slivering
unit with a production capacity of 1300 mats, 1.2 x 2.4 m per day, can be established for
approximately US $300, 000. Smaller facilities can be established for considerably less,
depending on their size and intended production rates.