A natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and insect-proofing treatment method for ornamental bamboo profiles.

Abstract

This invention discloses a natural plant-based boiling treatment method for ornamental bamboo profiles to prevent decay, mold, and insects. It relates to the field of bamboo preservation, mold prevention, and insect prevention technology, and includes the following steps: Step 1, Material Selection: Select bamboo that is at least five years old and has a diameter of at least 12 cm. This natural plant-based boiling treatment method for ornamental bamboo profiles utilizes the synergistic effect of four natural plant materials. High-temperature boiling promotes the full dissolution of effective components and their penetration into the bamboo fibers. During a five-year indoor environmental monitoring period, the treated bamboo showed no discoloration, deformation, insect infestation, or mold, maintaining its ornamental properties perfectly. The entire treatment process uses only natural plant materials and mountain spring water, without any chemically synthesized agents. The treated bamboo has no chemical residues, avoiding the damage to the natural texture of bamboo caused by traditional acid soaking or carbonization treatments, while also eliminating the potential risks of chemical agents to human health and the ecological environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to bamboo anti-corrosion, anti-mildew and anti-insect treatment technology, specifically to a natural plant boiling anti-corrosion, anti-mildew and anti-insect treatment method for moso bamboo ornamental profiles. Background Technology

[0002] Moso bamboo, also known as Nan bamboo, is a green plant resource with high development value due to its rapid growth and strong renewability. In recent years, the promotion of "replacing plastic with bamboo" has driven the widespread application of bamboo materials in daily consumer goods and industrial products, resulting in significant industrial progress.

[0003] However, bamboo, as a natural plant material, has four inherent defects: it is prone to discoloration, deformation, insect infestation, and mold. Bamboo contains abundant starch, sugars, proteins, and other nutrients, making it highly susceptible to mold and pests under suitable temperature and humidity conditions. Furthermore, the internal stress within bamboo makes it prone to cracking and deformation after processing. For everyday consumer goods and industrial products, these defects can be masked or mitigated by applying chemical preservatives and insect-repellent coatings. However, for ornamental bamboo handicrafts, the durability of the appearance and the long-term maintenance of its luster are core quality requirements, and these defects must be fundamentally addressed.

[0004] Currently, the main methods for preserving and preventing insect infestation in bamboo are chemical treatments, such as soaking in boric acid solution, coating with sodium fluorosilicate, and treatment with sodium pentachlorophenate. While these methods can improve the preservative and insect-resistant properties of bamboo to some extent, they generally have the following shortcomings: First, the extensive use of chemical agents poses potential risks to human health and the ecological environment; second, chemically treated bamboo loses its natural plant texture and color, making it unsuitable for high-end ornamental handicrafts; and third, its anti-deformation effect is limited, and cracking and deformation may still occur after long-term storage.

[0005] Some researchers have also explored the application of plant-derived preservatives in the preservation of moso bamboo, such as the use of camphor tree leaf extract in combination for antibacterial treatment of moso bamboo; and the anti-mildew effect of ZF wild plant aqueous extract on bamboo. However, these studies are mostly still at the laboratory stage of single plant extracts, and a systematic industrialized treatment method that can simultaneously solve the four major defects of discoloration, deformation, insect infestation, and mildew has not yet been formed.

[0006] Therefore, developing a purely natural, chemical-free treatment method that can simultaneously solve the four major defects of moso bamboo ornamental profiles—discoloration, deformation, insect infestation, and mold—has significant practical importance and broad market prospects. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide a natural plant-based scalding treatment method for ornamental bamboo profiles to prevent decay, mildew, and insects, thereby solving the problems of existing bamboo preservation and insect prevention methods that rely on chemical agents, damage the natural texture of bamboo, and cannot simultaneously solve the four major defects of moso bamboo ornamental profiles: discoloration, deformation, insect infestation, and mildew.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a method for natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and anti-insect treatment of moso bamboo ornamental profiles, comprising the following steps:

[0009] Step 1: Material Selection: Select bamboo that is over five years old and has a diameter of over 12 cm. Cut it into bamboo tubes, semi-circular bamboo tubes, bamboo strips or bamboo stalks as needed. After removing the outer skin, perform a deep color treatment and clean the internal bamboo nodes and impurities.

[0010] Step 2: Prepare the plant scalding solution: By weight, take 2800-4200 parts of the yellow middle layer of the bark of *Ulmus pumila*, 2000-3000 parts of the rhizome of *Hypericum yunnanensis*, 3600-5400 parts of the resin bark of *Cinnamomum camphora*, and 1600-2400 parts of the powdered bark and root bark of *Cinnamomum camphora*. Mix them together and add alpine spring water. The amount of alpine spring water should be 5-8 times the total weight of the plant materials. Place the mixture in a container.

[0011] Step 3, High-temperature boiling: Immerse the bamboo profiles treated in Step 1 into the plant scalding liquid prepared in Step 2, ensuring the liquid level is at least 10 cm above the profiles. Use firewood to heat the liquid, first boiling over high heat for 5-7 hours, then reducing to medium heat for another 5-7 hours. The total boiling time should be no less than 10 hours.

[0012] Step 4, Immersion Treatment: After turning off the heat, keep the profiles naturally immersed in the original plant scalding solution for 22-26 hours;

[0013] Step 5: Sun-drying treatment: Take out the bamboo profiles treated in Step 4, wash them with mountain spring water, and place them in the sun to dry for 18 to 22 hours, allowing the profiles to dry naturally to a moisture content of 25% to 35%.

[0014] Furthermore, in step two, the bark of the Chinese tallow tree is taken from trees that are over ten years old, and the middle yellow part of the bark is removed, along with the outer black epidermis and the inner white coating.

[0015] Furthermore, in step two, the rhizome of *Lysimachia christinae* is made from rhizomes that are three years or older, the resin bark of *Corydalis yanhusuo* is made from resin bark of *Corydalis yanhusuo* trees that are five years or older, and the powder of *Cinnamomum camphora* leaf bark and root is made from *Cinnamomum camphora* leaf bark and root that are twenty years or older, after drying and pulverizing.

[0016] Furthermore, the formula for the plant scalding solution in step two is as follows by weight: 3500 parts of the yellow middle layer of the bark of the Chinese tallow tree, 2500 parts of the rhizome of the Chinese tallow tree, 4500 parts of the resin bark of the Chinese tallow tree, and 2000 parts of the powder of the bark and root of the camphor tree.

[0017] Furthermore, in step two, the container is a stainless steel container with dimensions of 1.5 meters high and 1.2 meters wide, and in step three, the firewood heating is carried out on an earthen stove.

[0018] Furthermore, in step one, the bamboo is white-skinned bamboo, selected from bamboo with a diameter of 12 cm or more, and the natural color depth treatment is to remove the outer skin to expose the natural color of the bamboo.

[0019] Furthermore, in step three, the boiling time over high heat is 6 hours, the boiling time over medium heat is 6 hours, the soaking time in step four is 24 hours, and the drying time in step five is 20 hours.

[0020] Furthermore, the plant scalding liquid in step three is prepared from mountain spring water and plant raw materials, and the mountain spring water is taken from the natural spring water in the mountainous area where the bamboo forest is located.

[0021] Furthermore, the bamboo profiles dried in step five retain a moisture content of 25% to 35% to facilitate subsequent carving and processing.

[0022] Compared with existing technologies, the natural plant-based boiling treatment method for ornamental bamboo profiles provided by this invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0023] This invention employs a targeted, all-natural plant-based formula: the yellow middle layer of the bark of the Chinese tallow tree (Urtica arvense) is rich in natural color-fixing factors, effectively inhibiting the oxidation and discoloration of phenolic substances in bamboo, resulting in a uniform, deep brown color that is long-lasting and stable; the hardening active ingredients released from the rhizomes of *Hypericum perforatum* (over three years old) after high-temperature boiling penetrate deep into the bamboo fibers, effectively neutralizing and inhibiting the release of internal stress, fundamentally solving the industry pain point of cracking and deformation during long-term storage; the natural insect-repelling active substances in the resin bark of *Cinnamomum camphora* have a targeted repellent and killing effect on common bamboo borers; and the broad-spectrum antibacterial components in the powder of the bark and roots of *Cinnamomum camphora* (over twenty years old) continuously inhibit mold growth. The four natural plant materials work synergistically, and high-temperature boiling promotes the full dissolution of active ingredients and their penetration into the bamboo fibers. During a five-year indoor environmental monitoring period, the treated bamboo showed no discoloration, deformation, insect infestation, or mold, maintaining its excellent aesthetic properties. The entire processing uses only natural plant materials and mountain spring water, without any chemically synthesized agents. The treated bamboo has no chemical residues, avoiding the damage to the natural texture of bamboo caused by traditional acid soaking or carbonization treatments. At the same time, it eliminates the potential risks of chemical agents to human health and the ecological environment, meeting the requirements of green, environmentally friendly and sustainable development.

[0024] The processing method provided by this invention is environmentally friendly, easy to operate, and has a short processing cycle. It preserves the natural ornamental qualities of bamboo while imparting excellent processing performance, making it highly valuable for industrial applications. Compared to the cumbersome process of acid soaking for 7-9 days and requiring specialized treatment of chemical wastewater in existing technologies, this invention uses a combination of high-temperature boiling over firewood (6 hours of high heat + 6 hours of medium heat) + natural soaking in the original solution for 24 hours + sun drying for 20 hours, with an overall processing cycle of no more than 3 days. This significantly improves production efficiency. Furthermore, the stainless steel container and earthen stove heating method result in low equipment investment costs and facilitates mass production. Each batch can process 200-300 kg of bamboo, making it suitable for large-scale promotion. Most importantly, this invention precisely controls the moisture content of the bamboo after drying to between 25% and 35%. This moisture content range has been repeatedly verified through practice—it effectively eliminates excess free water in the bamboo and removes the risk of shrinkage and swelling caused by drastic moisture changes, thus ensuring the dimensional stability of the bamboo during subsequent storage and use; while retaining a certain proportion of bound water, it keeps the bamboo fibers moderately flexible, avoiding the problems of brittleness and easy cracking during carving that occur after high-temperature carbonization. The treated bamboo has a warm and solid texture, a deep brown and uniform color, and clearly discernible natural textures. Craftsmen report that it offers a smooth carving experience and strong detail expression, making it suitable for both large-scale round sculptures and intricate text carving. The entire process only produces biodegradable plant residues and natural scalding liquid, resulting in a low environmental impact. Furthermore, the scalding liquid can be reused, further reducing production costs and resource consumption, providing reliable technical support for the industrialized green manufacturing of high-end bamboo ornamental handicrafts. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and anti-insect treatment method for ornamental bamboo profiles according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0027] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solution of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0028] *Sapium sebiferum*: a deciduous tree belonging to the genus *Sapium* in the family Euphorbiaceae. This invention uses *Sapium sebiferum* trees over ten years old. After collecting the bark, the outer black outer layer and the inner white inner layer are removed, and only the middle yellow layer is used.

[0029] (2) Langqihuang: a plant of the genus Astragalus in the Fabaceae family. In this invention, the root diameter of plants older than three years is taken, washed, and cut into sections for later use.

[0030] (3) Resin bark of Quercus acutissima: Quercus acutissima (family Fagaceae, genus Quercus, mostly species of Quercus / Quercus), its resin bark is rich in natural insect-repellent active ingredients. Collect resin bark from Quercus acutissima trees that are more than five years old, remove surface impurities and use it for later use.

[0031] (4) Camphor tree: an evergreen tree belonging to the genus Cinnamomum of the Lauraceae family. In this invention, the leaves, bark, and roots of camphor trees over twenty years old are dried, pulverized, and prepared into powder for later use.

[0032] All of the above-mentioned plant materials can be obtained from nature through conventional plant collection methods or purchased through commercial channels.

[0033] Example 1

[0034] Please see Figure 1 As shown in the figure, this embodiment provides a natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and insect-proofing treatment method for moso bamboo ornamental profiles. The specific steps are as follows:

[0035] Step 1: Raw Material Preparation

[0036] Material Selection: Select white-skinned moso bamboo (Nan bamboo) that is at least five years old and 12 cm in diameter, ensuring the bamboo is straight, free of insect holes, and free of mold. According to customer requirements, the moso bamboo is cut into bamboo tubes, each approximately 50 cm long. After cutting, the outer layer of the bamboo is removed, and a deep color treatment is performed to expose the bamboo's uniform natural color. Then, the internal white parts and bamboo nodes are cleaned to ensure the inner wall of the bamboo tube is smooth and clean. The deep color treatment refers to using mechanical polishing to remove the outer layer (bamboo green) of the bamboo, exposing the bamboo's uniform natural color. The polishing depth should be sufficient to remove all the outer skin tissue without damaging the bamboo fiber structure. The treated bamboo surface should be smooth and have a uniform color.

[0037] Preparation of plant materials: ① Bark of *Ulmus pumila* (Chinese privet): Select *Ulmus pumila* trees over ten years old, collect the bark, separate the resin, remove the outer black epidermis and the white outer layer close to the tree, and only take the middle yellow part. Weigh out 3500 portions by weight (each portion is 1 gram, the same below), and cut into small pieces for later use; ② Rhizome of *Hypericum langqiense* (Chinese privet rhizome): Select rhizomes over three years old (rhizomes under three years old are too soft and not suitable for high-temperature boiling), weigh out 2500 portions, wash and cut into sections for later use; ③ Resin bark of *Cinnamomum camphora* (Chinese privet tree): Select *Cinnamomum camphora* trees over five years old, collect the resin bark, and weigh out 4500 portions for later use; ④ Powdered leaves, bark, and roots of *Cinnamomum camphora* trees over twenty years old, dry and pulverize them into powder, and weigh out 2000 portions for later use.

[0038] Preparation of mountain spring water: Take natural spring water from the mountainous area where the bamboo forest is located, filter it to remove impurities and set it aside for later use.

[0039] Step 2: Prepare the plant scalding liquid

[0040] Add 3500 parts of the yellow middle layer of *Ulmus pumila* bark, 2500 parts of *Lysimachia christinae* rhizome, 4500 parts of *Cinnamomum camphora* resin bark, and 2000 parts of *Cinnamomum camphora* leaf bark and root powder to a large stainless steel drum. The stainless steel drum is 1.5 meters high and 1.2 meters wide. Add high-altitude spring water to the stainless steel drum, the amount of which is 5 to 8 times the total weight of the plant materials, specifically enough to submerge the bamboo materials added later and ensure the water level is at least 10 centimeters above the top of the bamboo materials. Stir well to ensure the plant materials and spring water are fully mixed.

[0041] Step 3: High-temperature cooking

[0042] Place the cut and processed bamboo tubes into the plant-based blanching liquid in a stainless steel tube, ensuring the liquid level is at least 10 cm above the top of the bamboo. Place the stainless steel tube on a custom-made earthen stove and heat it with firewood. First, boil over high heat for 6 hours, maintaining a continuous boil; then reduce to medium heat and continue boiling for another 6 hours, for a total boiling time of 12 hours. During the boiling process, carefully observe the liquid level and add mountain spring water as needed to maintain the liquid level at least 10 cm above the bamboo. As the blanching liquid gradually turns dark brown, it emits a natural, refreshing herbal fragrance.

[0043] Step 4: Soaking Treatment

[0044] After the heat is turned off, do not remove the bamboo; allow it to soak naturally in the original plant-based blanching solution for 24 hours. During the soaking process, the active ingredients in the plant-based blanching solution continuously penetrate into the bamboo, causing its color to gradually change from light to a uniform dark brown.

[0045] Step 5: Drying

[0046] Remove the soaked bamboo tubes from the stainless steel tube and gently rinse the surface with mountain spring water to remove any attached plant residue. Place the cleaned bamboo tubes in the sun to dry for 20 hours, allowing the bamboo to naturally dry to a moisture content of approximately 30%. At this point, the bamboo retains about 30% moisture, ensuring its stability and facilitating subsequent carving and processing.

[0047] The bamboo tubes processed in this embodiment have a uniform dark brown color, a natural and warm luster, and a solid texture. They can be directly used to carve patterns of animals, flowers, trees, and words to make ornamental bamboo handicrafts.

[0048] Example 2

[0049] Please see Figure 1As shown, this embodiment provides a natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and insect-proofing treatment method for ornamental bamboo profiles. Unlike Embodiment 1, the bamboo material treated in this embodiment is in the form of semi-circular bamboo tubes and bamboo strips. The specific steps are as follows:

[0050] Step 1: Raw Material Preparation

[0051] Material Selection: Select white-skinned moso bamboo (Nan bamboo) that is at least six years old and has a diameter of 15 cm. Split the bamboo longitudinally to create semi-circular bamboo tubes and curved bamboo strips. The bamboo strips are approximately 0.5–1 cm thick, and the length varies from 30–80 cm depending on customer requirements. After cutting, remove the outer layer of the bamboo and perform a deep color treatment. Then clean the internal white parts and bamboo nodes to ensure that the inner and outer surfaces of the semi-circular bamboo tubes and bamboo strips are smooth and clean.

[0052] Preparation of plant materials: ① 3000 portions of the yellow middle layer of the bark of *Urtica dioica* (each portion is 1 gram, the same below); ② 2800 portions of *Lysimachia christinae* rootstock (over three years old); ③ 4200 portions of *Gnaphalium affine* resin bark (over five years old); ④ 2200 portions of *Camphora sinensis* leaf bark and root powder (from trees over fifty years old). All plant materials should be prepared according to the above weights and set aside for later use.

[0053] Preparation of mountain spring water: Take unpolluted mountain spring water, filter it and set it aside.

[0054] Step 2: Prepare the plant scalding liquid

[0055] Place the above-mentioned plant materials into a large stainless steel cylinder (1.5 meters high and 1.2 meters wide), add mountain spring water, and ensure the water level is sufficient to submerge the bamboo materials added later and to be at least 10 centimeters above them. Stir well.

[0056] Step 3: High-temperature cooking

[0057] Place the cut, semi-circular bamboo tubes and bamboo strips into the plant-based scalding liquid in a stainless steel cylinder, ensuring the liquid level is 12 cm above the top of the bamboo. Place the stainless steel cylinder on a traditional earthen stove and heat it with firewood. First, boil over high heat for 5.5 hours, then reduce to medium heat and boil for another 6.5 hours, for a total simmering time of 12 hours. Add mountain spring water as needed during the simmering process.

[0058] Step 4: Soaking Treatment

[0059] After the fire is turned off, allow the bamboo to soak naturally in the original plant-based blanching solution for 25 hours. During the soaking process, the semi-circular bamboo tubes and bamboo strips fully absorb the effective components in the plant-based blanching solution, and their color evenly turns dark brown.

[0060] Step 5: Drying

[0061] Take out the soaked semi-circular bamboo tubes and bamboo strips, rinse the surface with mountain spring water, and place them in the sun to dry for 22 hours, allowing the bamboo to dry naturally to a moisture content of about 28%.

[0062] The semi-circular bamboo tubes and bamboo strips processed in this embodiment have a uniform dark brown color, stable texture, and are not deformed or moldy, making them suitable for making bamboo ornaments, bamboo carvings, and other art pieces.

[0063] Example 3

[0064] Please see Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment provides a natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and insect-proofing treatment method for ornamental bamboo profiles. Unlike embodiments one and two, the bamboo material treated in this embodiment is in the form of bamboo strips and bamboo chain pieces. The specific steps are as follows:

[0065] Step 1: Raw Material Preparation

[0066] Material Selection: Select white-skinned moso bamboo (Nan bamboo) that is at least five years old and has a diameter of over 18 cm. Process the bamboo into bamboo strips and bamboo chain pieces. The bamboo strips are approximately 2-3 cm wide, 30-50 cm long, and 0.3-0.5 cm thick. The bamboo chain pieces are small sheets used to make decorative chains. After processing, remove the outer layer of the bamboo, perform a deep color treatment, and clean the surface of burrs and impurities.

[0067] Preparation of plant materials: ① 4000 portions of the yellow middle layer of the bark of *Ulmus pumila*; ② 2200 portions of *Hypericum langqiense* rootstock (over four years old); ③ 4800 portions of *Cinnamomum camphora* resin bark (over six years old); ④ 1800 portions of *Camphora sinensis* leaf bark and root powder (from trees over twenty years old). All plant materials should be prepared and ready for use.

[0068] Preparation of mountain spring water: Take natural mountain spring water, filter it and set it aside.

[0069] Step 2: Prepare the plant scalding liquid

[0070] Put the above-mentioned plant materials into a large stainless steel cylinder (1.5 meters high and 1.2 meters wide), add mountain spring water, stir well, and make sure the water level is high enough to submerge the bamboo materials added later and be at least 10 centimeters above them.

[0071] Step 3: High-temperature cooking

[0072] Place the processed bamboo strips and bamboo chain pieces into the plant-based scalding liquid in a stainless steel cylinder, ensuring the liquid level is 10 cm above the top of the bamboo. Place the stainless steel cylinder on a traditional earthen stove and heat it with firewood. First, boil over high heat for 6.5 hours, then reduce to medium heat and boil for another 5.5 hours, for a total simmering time of 12 hours. Maintain the liquid level throughout the simmering process.

[0073] Step 4: Soaking Treatment

[0074] After the heat is turned off, allow the bamboo to soak naturally in the original plant-based scalding liquid for 23 hours. During this process, the thin bamboo sheets fully absorb the effective components of the plant, resulting in a uniform color penetration.

[0075] Step 5: Drying

[0076] Remove the soaked bamboo strips and chain pieces, gently rinse them with mountain spring water, and place them in the sun to dry for 19 hours, allowing the bamboo to naturally dry to a moisture content of approximately 32%. Since the bamboo strips and chain pieces are relatively thin, the drying time can be appropriately shortened, but a certain amount of moisture still needs to be retained to facilitate subsequent fine carving.

[0077] The bamboo strips and chain pieces processed in this embodiment have a uniform dark brown color, are flexible yet not brittle, and are resistant to deformation and insect infestation. They are suitable for carving intricate patterns such as text and can be made into decorative handicrafts such as bamboo books and bamboo chain ornaments.

[0078] Comparative Example: A method for preventing mold and insect infestation in bamboo.

[0079] I. Technical Solution

[0080] The existing technology is an invention patent applied for by Central South University of Forestry and Technology entitled "A Method for Treating Bamboo to Prevent Mildew and Insects" (application number: CN201210313178.2). Its technical solution mainly includes the following steps:

[0081] Step 1: Acid Solution Soaking: Soak the bamboo in an acid solution at a temperature of 20–60℃, with a bamboo to acid solution volume ratio of 1:(0.5–2.0), for 7–9 days. The acid solution is a mixture of formic acid, acetic anhydride, maleic anhydride, and eucalyptol in a mass percentage concentration of (0.1–0.2%):(0.2–0.4%):(0.1–0.15%):(0.3–0.5%). After soaking, the bamboo is removed to obtain acid-soaked bamboo.

[0082] Step 2, High-temperature carbonization: Carbonize the soaked bamboo in superheated steam at 110-130℃ for 1-3 hours to obtain carbonized bamboo.

[0083] Step 3: Drying treatment: The moisture content of carbonized bamboo is reduced to 6% to 12% by drying method, thus obtaining mildew-proof and insect-proof bamboo.

[0084] II. Technical Features

[0085] 1. The process is relatively simple and easy to industrialize. This method publicly claims to be simple, controllable, low-cost, requires no expensive equipment, and is easy to industrialize.

[0086] 2. A combination of acid soaking and high-temperature carbonization is used. The chemical composition of the bamboo is altered by soaking it in an acid solution, followed by high-temperature steam carbonization, achieving both chemical and physical anti-corrosion and insect-proofing treatments.

[0087] 3. The treatment effect is relatively guaranteed. Carbonization can remove some of the active substances in bamboo and, to a certain extent, inhibit the growth of mold and pests.

[0088] 4. Applicable to industrial-scale mass production. This method has low equipment requirements, relatively clear processing conditions, and possesses the basic conditions for large-scale application.

[0089] III. Existing shortcomings

[0090] 1. The use of chemical acid reagents poses environmental and health risks. This method involves soaking the bamboo in chemicals such as formic acid, acetic anhydride, maleic anhydride, and eucalyptus acid. These chemical reagents may pollute the environment during use and disposal, and acidic substances may remain in the treated bamboo, posing potential risks to human health. This method is inconsistent with the current trend of green and environmentally friendly development.

[0091] 2. This method only addresses mold and insect prevention, failing to solve the problems of discoloration and deformation. It primarily addresses the mold and insect prevention issues of bamboo, lacking effective solutions for its susceptibility to discoloration and deformation. Color changes and shape deformations in bamboo during long-term storage and use severely affect the quality and durability of ornamental handicrafts.

[0092] 3. Carbonization alters the natural texture of bamboo. While high-temperature steam carbonization can improve its anti-corrosion and insect-resistant properties, it also causes bamboo to lose its natural color and texture. For ornamental handicrafts, the natural beauty and warm luster of bamboo are its key values. Carbonization significantly alters the appearance of bamboo, making it unsuitable for bamboo handicrafts where aesthetic appeal is paramount.

[0093] 4. The mechanical properties of bamboo may be damaged. Prolonged soaking in acid solution (7-9 days) combined with high-temperature carbonization treatment may cause some damage to the cellulose structure of bamboo, affecting its mechanical strength and overall stability.

[0094] 5. The anti-deformation effect is unclear. Although this method improves the dimensional stability of bamboo to some extent through carbonization, it lacks specific solutions and effectiveness verification for the cracking and deformation problems of bamboo profiles during long-term storage.

[0095] 6. The processing cycle is relatively long. The acid solution soaking process alone takes 7 to 9 days, and the overall processing cycle is too long, which affects production efficiency.

[0096] The effects of the natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and anti-insect treatment method for ornamental bamboo profiles in Examples 1 to 3 were compared with those of the control example, and the results are shown in the table below:

[0097] Sources of preservative and insect-repellent active substances Chemically synthesized acids (formic acid, acetic anhydride, maleic anhydride, eucalyptus acid), not of natural origin. Pure natural plant source (bark of the Chinese tallow tree + resinous bark of the tree worm), originating from natural mountain forests. Same as Example 1 Same as Example 1 Mechanism of action for preservation and insect prevention Acidic chemical agents used to kill bacteria and insects pose a risk of chemical residue. Synergistic effect of natural plant active ingredients, targeted insect repellent from the resin bark of the *Corydalis yanhusuo* tree. Same as Example 1 Same as Example 1 Anti-discoloration treatment methods Not involved; the color of bamboo was artificially altered after carbonization. The yellow middle layer of the bark of the *Euphorbia tirucalli* tree contains active ingredients that stabilize the natural color of the bamboo, giving it a uniform dark brown hue. Same as Example 1 Same as Example 1 Deformation prevention treatment methods Carbonization treatment improves dimensional stability to some extent, but it is not targeted enough. The rhizomes of Langqi Huang (hardened rhizomes over three years old) continue to harden after high-temperature boiling, effectively inhibiting the release of internal stress in bamboo. Same as Example 1 Same as Example 1 Anti-mildew treatment methods Acid solution combined with high-temperature carbonization inhibits mold growth. The effective components in the bark and roots of camphor trees aged over 20 years can specifically inhibit the growth of mold on the surface and inside bamboo. Same as Example 1 Same as Example 1 Whether chemical additives are used Yes (formic acid, acetic anhydride, maleic anhydride, eucalyptus acid, etc.) No, it's made with pure natural plants and high-mountain spring water. No, it's made with pure natural plants and high-mountain spring water. No, it's made with pure natural plants and high-mountain spring water. Bamboo's natural texture is well preserved. High-temperature carbonization destroys natural texture and luster. Naturally boiled, the bamboo has a naturally warm, deep brown color, preserving its natural texture. Same as Example 1 Same as Example 1 Is it beneficial for subsequent fine carving? Carbonization makes bamboo more brittle, increasing the difficulty of carving. Retaining 25%–35% moisture content, its texture is flexible and suitable for carving. Retaining 28% moisture content, suitable for carving Retaining 32% moisture content, suitable for fine carving. Environmental friendliness of the treatment process Chemical wastewater requires specialized treatment and has a high environmental impact. The plant residue is biodegradable, and the scalding liquid is made from natural ingredients, making it environmentally friendly. Same as Example 1 Same as Example 1 Can the four major defects be addressed simultaneously? No (focuses only on mold and insect prevention) It covers all aspects of disease prevention, including discoloration, deformation, insect infestation, and mold. yes yes Processed bamboo form Unrestricted form, primarily applicable to industrial profiles. Bamboo tube (large diameter, suitable for large-format carving) Semi-circular bamboo tubes / curved bamboo strips (suitable for decorative crafts) Bamboo strips / bamboo chain pieces (thin profiles, suitable for fine carving)

[0098] Compared with the comparative example, the beneficial effects of the embodiments of this application are as follows: First, regarding the source of active substances, the comparative example relies on chemically synthesized acids such as formic acid and acetic anhydride to achieve mold and insect prevention, while the embodiments of this application all use pure natural plant raw materials (bark of *Euphorbia tirucalli*, rhizome of *Euphorbia lancifolia*, resin bark of *Euphorbia hirta*, and bark and root of *Cinnamomum camphora*). The effective components are extracted by boiling in high-mountain spring water, with no chemical additives throughout the process. The treated bamboo has no chemical residues and is highly safe for human health and the environment. Second, in terms of functional coverage, the comparative example only addresses mold and insect prevention, lacking specific measures for preventing discoloration and deformation. The embodiments of this application adopt a targeted approach—specifically addressing discoloration in the middle yellow layer of *Euphorbia tirucalli* bark, deformation in *Euphorbia lancifolia* rhizome, insect infestation in *Euphorbia hirta* resin bark, and mold in *Cinnamomum camphora* bark and root of over twenty years old. This is the first time that a systematic and comprehensive solution has been achieved for the four major natural defects of moso bamboo ornamental profiles. Furthermore, regarding the treatment effect, the comparative example, after high-temperature carbonization, artificially altered the color of the bamboo, destroyed its natural texture, and made the bamboo brittle, which is not conducive to fine carving. In contrast, the embodiments of this application use low-temperature, long-term boiling (6 hours on high heat + 6 hours on medium heat + 24 hours of soaking) to allow the effective components of the plants to gently penetrate into the bamboo fibers. After treatment, the bamboo retains its natural texture and warm luster. By precisely controlling the moisture content after drying (25%–35%), dimensional stability is ensured while making the bamboo flexible and suitable for subsequent fine carving. In addition, the acid soaking process of the comparative example takes 7–9 days, resulting in a long treatment cycle and requiring special treatment of chemical wastewater. In contrast, the total treatment cycle of the embodiments of this application (12 hours of boiling + 24 hours of soaking + 20 hours of drying) does not exceed 3 days, significantly improving production efficiency. Moreover, the boiling solution is made of pure natural ingredients, and the plant residues are biodegradable, resulting in a smaller environmental impact.

[0099] Application examples

[0100] The bamboo ornamental profiles treated in Examples 1 to 3 were applied to the large-scale production of bamboo handicrafts, with specific applications as follows:

[0101] Application scenario: A bamboo handicraft manufacturing enterprise uses the bamboo ornamental profiles (including bamboo tubes, semi-circular bamboo tubes, bamboo strips, bamboo strips, bamboo chain pieces, etc.) processed by the method of this invention to mass-produce various ornamental bamboo handicrafts.

[0102] Processing scale: Large stainless steel cylinders (1.5 meters high and 1.2 meters wide) are used for batch processing, with each batch processing approximately 200-300 kg of bamboo profiles. Following the formula and process parameters of Example 1 (3500 parts of the yellow middle layer of *Ulmus pumila* bark (each part being 1 gram), 2500 parts of *Hypericum langqiense* rhizome, 4500 parts of *Cinnamomum camphora* resin bark, and 2000 parts of camphor tree leaf and root powder; boiling over high heat for 6 hours, boiling over medium heat for 6 hours, soaking for 24 hours, and drying for 20 hours), the processing cycle for each batch is approximately 3 days.

[0103] Application Effects: Bamboo profiles treated with the method of this invention exhibit a uniform dark brown color, a natural and warm luster, and a solid and stable texture. Enterprises then entrust the treated profiles to carving craftsmen for intricate carving, with the carvings encompassing various patterns such as animals, flowers, trees, and text. After carving, the crafts can be directly displayed or sold as finished products without the need for additional chemical coatings or preservatives.

[0104] Long-term observation: The bamboo handicrafts produced in this application example were placed in a normal indoor environment (temperature 15–30℃, relative humidity 40%–70%) for long-term observation. After five years of continuous observation, the color of the handicrafts remained stable without significant discoloration; the bamboo did not crack or deform; no signs of insect infestation were found; and no mold appeared on the bamboo surface even in high humidity environments such as the rainy season. The ornamental properties remained excellent, verifying that the bamboo ornamental profiles treated by the method of this invention have excellent anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, anti-insect, anti-discoloration, and anti-deformation properties under normal indoor conditions.

[0105] The foregoing has only described certain exemplary embodiments of the present invention by way of illustration. Undoubtedly, those skilled in the art can modify the described embodiments in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the foregoing drawings and descriptions are illustrative in nature and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for treating ornamental bamboo profiles using natural plant-based boiling for preservation, mildew prevention, and insect resistance, characterized in that: Includes the following steps: Step 1: Material Selection: Select bamboo that is over five years old and has a diameter of over 12 cm. Cut it into bamboo tubes, semi-circular bamboo tubes, bamboo strips or bamboo stalks as needed. After removing the outer skin, perform a deep color treatment and clean the internal bamboo nodes and impurities. Step 2: Prepare the plant scalding solution: By weight, take 2800-4200 parts of the yellow middle layer of the bark of *Ulmus pumila*, 2000-3000 parts of the rhizome of *Hypericum yunnanensis*, 3600-5400 parts of the resin bark of *Cinnamomum camphora*, and 1600-2400 parts of the powdered bark and root bark of *Cinnamomum camphora*. Mix them together and add alpine spring water. The amount of alpine spring water should be 5-8 times the total weight of the plant materials. Place the mixture in a container. Step 3, High-temperature boiling: Immerse the bamboo profiles treated in Step 1 into the plant scalding liquid prepared in Step 2, ensuring the liquid level is at least 10 cm above the profiles. Use firewood to heat the liquid, first boiling over high heat for 5-7 hours, then reducing to medium heat for another 5-7 hours. The total boiling time should be no less than 10 hours. Step 4, Immersion Treatment: After turning off the heat, keep the profiles naturally immersed in the original plant scalding solution for 22-26 hours; Step 5: Sun-drying treatment: Take out the bamboo profiles treated in Step 4, wash them with mountain spring water, and place them in the sun to dry for 18 to 22 hours, allowing the profiles to dry naturally to a moisture content of 25% to 35%.

2. The method for natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and insect-proofing treatment of moso bamboo ornamental profiles according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step two, the bark of the *Ulmus pumila* tree is taken from trees that are over ten years old. The middle yellow part of the bark is taken, and the outer black epidermis and inner white coating are removed.

3. The method for natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and insect-proofing treatment of moso bamboo ornamental profiles according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step two, the rhizome of *Lysimachia christinae* is made from rhizomes that are three years or older, the resin bark of *Kaoshuchong* is made from resin bark of *Kaoshuchong* trees that are five years or older, and the powder of *Camphora japonica* leaf bark and root is made from dried and pulverized *Camphora japonica* leaf bark and root of trees that are twenty years or older.

4. The method for natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and insect-proofing treatment of moso bamboo ornamental profiles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The formula for the plant scalding solution in step two is as follows by weight: 3500 parts of the yellow middle layer of the bark of the Chinese tallow tree, 2500 parts of the rhizome of the Chinese tallow tree, 4500 parts of the resin bark of the Chinese tallow tree, and 2000 parts of the powder of the bark and root of the camphor tree.

5. The method for natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and anti-insect treatment of moso bamboo ornamental profiles according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step two, the container is a stainless steel container with a height of 1.5 meters and a width of 1.2 meters. In step three, the firewood heating is carried out on the earthen stove.

6. The method for natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and insect-proofing treatment of moso bamboo ornamental profiles according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step one, the bamboo is white-skinned bamboo, selected from bamboo with a diameter of 12 cm or more. The natural color depth treatment is to remove the outer skin to expose the natural color of the bamboo.

7. The method for natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and insect-proofing treatment of moso bamboo ornamental profiles according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step three, the boiling time over high heat is 6 hours, the boiling time over medium heat is 6 hours, the soaking time in step four is 24 hours, and the drying time in step five is 20 hours.

8. The method for natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and anti-insect treatment of moso bamboo ornamental profiles according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step three, the plant scalding liquid is prepared from mountain spring water and plant raw materials. The mountain spring water is taken from natural spring water in the mountainous area where the bamboo forest is located.

9. The method for natural plant-based anti-corrosion, anti-mildew, and anti-insect treatment of moso bamboo ornamental profiles according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step five, the dried bamboo profiles retain a moisture content of 25% to 35% to facilitate subsequent carving and processing.

Images