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This study presents in-depth scanning electron microscopic (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopic (EDX) analyses of the surface contour of natural bamboo fibers from Phyllostachys rubromarginata species processed under various eco-friendly conditions. Both fresh and dry bamboo were used. Fresh bamboo provided easier and quicker processing. Two age groups, 6-months to 1-year-old and 2 to 4-year-old bamboo plants, were also studied for fiber output. Subjective visual observations suggested that the age of the bamboo affected fiber yield. The diameter of the bamboo fibers was 10-17 µm, which fits within standard spinning parameters. Analysis showed that the bamboo fibers were well-rounded along the longitudinal direction, unlike bamboo viscose typically found on the market. This article provides a detailed description of some successful processes for bamboo fiber production.

Since fibers are strongly bonded in bamboo, extraction of fibers in their natural form is very difficult. This difficulty has favored viscose processing of bamboo. This study covers routes to produce spinnable natural bamboo fibers through eco-friendly processes, while retaining antibacterial and other innate properties. Natural bamboo fibers treated under mild conditions showed better antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus than the raw red margin bamboo plant (Phyllostachys rubromarginata). Bamboo contains compounds that promote bacterial growth, as well as others that are antibacterial. If bacterial growth promoting soluble compounds are removed, antibacterial activity increases in natural bamboo fibers. Some antibacterial activity may even remain in viscose fiber made from bamboo. This study provides information on antibacterial activity in red margin bamboo, natural bamboo fibers, and commercial bamboo viscose.