TAIPEI, Taiwan, Sept. 27 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Bamboo charcoal is produced by heating bamboo that is at least four years old to over 800 degrees Celsius. In a charcoal state, it is on the one hand quite delicate, but also heavier, porous and full of minerals. It has the amazing ability to act against odors, moisture, and ultra infrared rays, and to guard against magnetic waves.

ITRI has successfully developed a wide range of bamboo charcoal applied technologies. Bamboo charcoal and bamboo vinegar, which is refined in the carbonizing process, have applications in any number of food, clothing and home/lifestyle products. For example, bamboo charcoal particles can be included in flour, ice cream, tofu and spring water. These particles help to boost activity in the intestinal tract and also act to detoxify the body. Water filtered using bamboo charcoal can be used in beer, whiskey and coffee, adding a pleasing taste to these beverages. In toothpaste, face cream and shampoo, bamboo charcoal particulates help to kill germs, clean and get rid of stains. And in various items used in the household, bamboo charcoal serves to fight against odors. Meanwhile, various clothing items and health products can be made using bamboo charcoal in a nano form and using bamboo charcoal yarn, helping to absorb moisture and prevent germs.

Bamboo is primarily grown in tropical climates, especially around the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn. The world has about 22 million hectares of bamboo forests, with the most in India, followed by mainland China. The remainder is spread throughout other areas, such as Latin America. While Taiwan only has about 150,000 hectares of bamboo forests, it is a forerunner in international bamboo materials research.

Without a doubt, bamboo charcoal is tomorrow's star in the field of materials technology. Taiwan is currently working on developing kidney dialysis technology utilizing bamboo charcoal. In addition to economic benefit and raising Taiwan's international competitiveness, bamboo charcoal is an important link in ensuring sustainable development. ITRI will continue to carry out research and promotion of emerging bamboo products that utilize this technology. Bamboo will play an important role in the quality of lifestyle for mankind in the 21st century.