Bamboo splits and slivers (1)

What are Bamboo Splits and Slivers? Bamboo splits and slivers are longitudinal sections of a bamboo pole (culm). Splits are the full thickness of the culm wall and have the green outer layer still attached. Slivers are thin, narrow sections of bamboo wood. They are the primary materials used for weaving a wide range of products. On a small scale they may be used for handicraft items and objects of daily use. On a large scale, one of the most useful products they can be woven into are the mats that are used to produce bamboo matboard. How are they produced? Splits and slivers may be produced by hand splitting or mechanical splitting. Hand splitting is suitable for small-scale production and there is a wide range of tools available, both traditional and modern. Automated splitting machines are more suitable for large-scale production of slivers. Fresh bamboo culms are passed through a series of machines that produce splits of successively smaller sizes until the desired size is reached. What is the market for bamboo splits and slivers? The market for bamboo splits is limited, because they are of limited use. However, bamboo slivers are the primary raw material for mat making and the demand for mats is closely related to the demand for matboard. Matboard is a versatile type of plywood and its markets are increasing rapidly. Often the splitting and slivering unit is established with very close linkages to the matboard factories and weaving facilities and weaving staff may be included in the unit. In some instances the splitting and slivering unit may be a subsidiary part of the matboard factory. What is the role of a bamboo splitting and slivering unit in rural development? The unit requires considerable supplies of raw bamboos, the management and harvesting of which increases employment opportunities for farmers and foresters. Establishing new plantations will benefit the environment and substituting bamboo for wood in products will help conserve natural forests. The unit offers employment opportunities for unskilled, semi-skilled and technically trained personnel for its operation and management. A large unit established with mat-weaving facilities included can provide employment for up to 400 people. How do I establish a bamboo splitting and slivering unit? A regular supply of raw bamboos, labour, electricity and an established market for the slivers, or the mats if mat weaving is included in the unit, is required. A large bamboo splitting and slivering unit with a production capacity of 1300 mats, 1.2 x 2.4 m per day, can be established for approximately US $300, 000. Smaller facilities can be established for considerably less, depending on their size and intended production rates.Bamboo splits and slivers are the primary materials used for weaving a wide range of product