Novel bamboo dyeing method inspired by plant physiology

Liquid dye treatment of bamboo is difficult due to the lack of transverse conductive tissue; thus, to achieve deep color permeation, high temperatures and pressures are often used. In this study, a novel bamboo dyeing method was designed using the strong transpiration of newly harvested Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens Mazel) leaves as a water transportation mechanism to replace the bamboo water–mineral solution with dye solution from the bottom to the top throughout the conducting tissue. The effects of dye concentration, pH, light type, and temperature on bamboo dyeing were analyzed. The dyeing method was suitable for most bamboo dye solutions and showed desirable decorative effects in three sections and an adequate multicolor dyeing effect. Light and temperature were the primary factors that influenced the dyeing outcome. A concentration of 1% (wt) of dye between 500 and 1000 mL was shown to be sufficient for treating one stalk. The dyeing method evaluated in this study is environmentally friendly, with no energy consumption, and involves one-direction transportation without dye solution contamination or wastewater discharge. [Display omitted] •Novel bamboo dyeing method with no energy consumption or wastewater discharge.•Strong leaf transpiration used as a transport power in newly harvested bamboo.•1% (wt) and 500–1000 mL of plant dyes was sufficient to treat one bamboo plant.•Vascular bundles were sufficiently dyed, highlighting the natural bamboo texture.•Three-section models for dye solution transporting were established.