DOST researchers find key features in local bamboo used as biomass fuel

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Researchers from the Department of Science and Technology- Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) examined how raw and carbonized Philippine giant bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper) respond to heat and combustion.

The study "Comparative Iso-Conversional Kinetics of Raw and Carbonized Dendrocalamus asper (Schult. & Schult.f.) Backer under Inert and Oxidative Atmospheres" investigated how carbonization alters the material's composition and affects its stability, breakdown patterns, and energy content. It was published in Advances in Bamboo Science, an international journal published by Elsevier and classified as a Quartile 1 (Q1) journal in SCImago Journal Rank (SJR),

"In the transition to more sustainable energy systems, investments in technology go hand in hand with a strong foundation of scientific knowledge," said DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. "Studies like this help inform future innovations and strengthen the country's capacity to develop renewable energy solutions amid rising energy demand and growing climate challenges."

“A better understanding of these properties can contribute to current efforts in developing high-value applications for bamboo,” explained DOST-FPRDI Engr. Celine Rose S. Jimenez-Hopia, adding that the “data can help improve the design of biomass energy systems and maximize the energy potential of bamboo.”

The results showed clear differences in how raw and carbonized bamboo behave during heating and combustion. Raw bamboo breaks down and burns more readily, while carbonized bamboo is more heat-resistant, requires higher temperatures to ignite, and shows a more controlled combustion process. The researchers also established key kinetic parameters on the decomposition of both materials, which are important for modeling and optimizing biomass energy technologies.

The findings suggest that raw bamboo may be better suited for processes that require rapid energy release, such as fast pyrolysis, while carbonized bamboo may be more appropriate for applications that rely on stable solid fuels, including charcoal-based energy systems.

The study was conducted by Institute researchers Engr. Celine Rose S. Jimenez-Hopia, Engr. Karlo A. Hopia, Ms. Kate D. Navor, Engr. Amando Allan D.M. Bondad, and Dr. Anniver Ryan P. Lapuz. 

The publication in a Q1-ranked journal highlights the rigor and quality of the research. It is considered among the highest-ranking scientific journals in its field. Studies in this category undergo strict peer review and are widely referenced by the global research community. 

DOST-FPRDI Director, Dr. Rico J. Cabangon emphasizes the agency’s commitment to make its R&D studies on wood and non-wood products more accessible to a wider audience.

"Publishing our research in reputable local and international journals allows us to share our knowledge and discoveries with the broader scientific community," he said. "Through these publications, we contribute to the body of knowledge while increasing visibility and potential impact. I hope to see more studies published in reputable journals in the future, to reach more stakeholders, inform future innovations, and play our part in sustainable development both in the Philippines and beyond,” ended Cabangon.

In 2025, the Institute published 24 scientific papers in various local and international journals. Several of these publications received recognition under the International Publication Award (IPub) category during the 2025 DOST Intellectual Property Awards (IPA), underscoring the dedication of its researchers to scientific excellence and global relevance. 

The Forest Products Research and Development Institute is one of the attached agencies of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All. For more information, visit www.fprdi.dost.gov.ph. (By Angelique B. Evangelista, DOST-FPRDI)