Bamboo reinforced concrete (BRC) has gained increasing attention as a sustainable and low-cost alternative to conventional steel-reinforced concrete, particularly in developing regions where material availability and environmental considerations are critical. However, the practical application of bamboo as reinforcement is significantly limited by its poor bond characteristics with concrete and its susceptibility to moisture-induced degradation. This review critically examines the role of surface treatment techniques in enhancing the bond strength and durability performance of bamboo-reinforced concrete systems. Various treatment methods, including bitumen coating, epoxy treatment, chemical modification, and surface roughening, are systematically analyzed with respect to their influence on interfacial bonding, moisture resistance, and long-term structural performance. The review synthesizes findings from experimental studies focusing on pull-out behavior, flexural performance, and durability indicators such as water absorption, biological resistance, and dimensional stability. Key challenges including variability in treatment effectiveness, lack of standardization, and limited long-term performance data are also discussed. The study highlights that appropriate surface modification significantly improves bonding efficiency and durability, thereby expanding the feasibility of bamboo as a reinforcement material. Future research directions emphasizing hybrid treatment techniques, standard design guidelines, and large-scale validation are identified to advance the adoption of bamboo in sustainable construction.

Keywords

Bamboo reinforced concrete; Surface treatment; Bond strength; Durability; Sustainable construction; Epoxy coating; Bitumen treatment; Natural reinforcement