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DOST-FPRDI conducts science-based research and evaluations in its Fire Testing Laboratory to develop bamboo as fire-retardant construction material. Photos from DOST-FPRDI

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ABS-CBN News Digital Intern

<div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:960px;display:block" width="960"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1766195674925Fire-Testing-Laboratory.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">DOST-FPRDI conducts science-based research and evaluations in its Fire Testing Laboratory to develop bamboo as fire-retardant construction material. <em>Photos from DOST-FPRDI</em></span></span></span></div><p>MANILA — The Department of Science and Technology - Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) has been advancing research initiatives to develop bamboo as a fire-safe construction material and building component that slows down the spread of fire and reduces its intensity. </p><p>Bamboo is a commonly used construction material due to its practicality. It can be harvested faster than timber, naturally absorbs carbon dioxide that reduces environmental footprint, and a much more cost-effective choice compared to other conventional materials. </p><p>However, the November 26<a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/world/2025/11/27/what-we-know-about-hong-kong-s-deadly-high-rise-fire-1115"> fire incident </a>in Hong Kong, which reportedly intensified rapidly due to bamboo scaffoldings and green construction netting all over the buildings, had sparked conversations and concerns over bamboo’s combustibility. </p><div><a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/world/2025/12/3/personal-how-the-hong-kong-fire-shattered-the-family-behind-a-viral-photo-1130">PERSONAL: How the Hong Kong fire shattered the family behind a viral photo</a></div><p>This propelled the initiative of DOST-FPRDI of exploring ways to develop fire-retardant technologies.</p><p>“We understand the concerns people have about bamboo and fire safety, which is why we have been taking proactive steps to address them,” DOST-FPRDI Director Rico Cabangon, a bamboo expert, said.</p><p>“Hazards cannot always be predicted, but they can be mitigated when we apply the right science, the right research, and the right technologies,” DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. also noted. </p><p>One of the institute’s previous studies focused on the use of nano-sized montmorillonite clay, a less toxic soil amendment alternative to imported chemicals, in wood products as a protective layer to slow ignition and minimize flame spread. </p><p>The study showed that application of nanoclays enhances wood products’ fire resistance and is now being considered for bamboo products.</p><p>The institute also develops bamboo-based cellulose nanofiber aerogel from kauayan-tinik, a thorny bamboo species, as a fire-retardant construction insulation additive. This technology aims to help builders and homeowners make safer homes. </p><p>DOST-FPRDI also conducts evaluations in its Fire Testing Laboratory to ensure that materials meet safety standards.</p><p>The lab examines the fire resistance of wood and non-wood materials, including bamboo, by applying a small match-sized flame to vertically oriented specimens for up to 30 seconds to assess how easily they catch fire.</p><p>Solidum said that such initiatives align with DOST’s long-standing commitment to maximizing the full potential of bamboo and that its safety and reliability remain at the center of DOST’s research efforts.</p><p>In the next few years, the Institute aims to expand its laboratory’s capabilities to test larger materials with more advanced machines for local building contractors and construction materials developers. </p><p>“Our goal is simple: To help Filipinos use bamboo and other forest products with confidence — safer, smarter, and more sustainably than ever before,” said Solidum. </p><div><a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2025/12/11/dost-developed-cobra-weapon-system-turned-over-to-dnd-1613">DOST-developed COBRA weapon system turned over to DND</a></div><div><br/></div><div><strong>RELATED VIDEO:</strong></div><div style="text-align:center"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NMHrK2cwxD4?si=_KGT9pBglE85afDo" title="YouTube video player" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

<p>The Department of Science and Technology - Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) has been advancing research initiatives to develop bamboo as a fire-safe construction material and building component that slows down the spread of fire and reduces its intensity.</p>

The Department of Science and Technology - Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) has been advancing research initiatives to develop bamboo as a fire-safe construction material and building component that slows down the spread of fire and reduces its intensity.

DOST-FPRDI to develop bamboo as fire-retardant construction material

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DOST-FPRDI to develop bamboo as fire-retardant construction material

ABS-CBN News Digital Intern,

Alessandra Reodique

Published December 20, 2025 09:54 AM PHT

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