Bamboo which is extensively used as a flooring type all around the world today, has evolved significantly and was first used 5000 years ago in China!
Among the members of the grass family, bamboo is the most diverse member. It is the fastest growing grass with regenerative properties. We all know that Chinese people made use of the inner pulp of bamboo to invent paper. Other than that, bamboo was used to build water-resistant rafts and even boats.
Historical Evolution of Bamboo
The history of bamboo is very interesting and comprises of various sections. The first-ever use of bamboo dates back to 5,000 years. The use of bamboo originated from the Chinese people. They used bamboo for making arrows, weaving, and even in construction. China has 400 species of resilient grass growing on its land, and that is why the history of bamboo usage has most of its origins in this country.
First-known Bamboo Research
Archeologists who are exploring the Village of Banpo, a Neolithic village, have found archives written about bamboo slips that are from the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD). Moreover, the first-known Bamboo research was found by the archeologists which belonged to the Jin Dynasty (265-316 AD), which included the methods of cultivation and information about 61 bamboo species!
The Account of Firing Cannon
Alchemists in China were in the process of creating an elixir of immortality in 850 AD. It was during this era it was found that combining saltpeter, sulfur, carbon or charcoal, and honey results could cause a massive fire, big enough to burn a house to the ground. The military forces of the Song Dynasty incorporated this discovery in the battle with the invading Nuchens in the early 12th century. It was the first time the bamboo firing cannon was brought into use.
Use of Bamboo During the Song Dynasty (960-1279)
The use of bamboo in the Song dynasty was at its peak. From papermaking to clothing, the use of this grass type was everywhere! The most dominant reason for such extensive use of bamboo was due to its rapid growth, which made it a cheap material to use.
Papermaking
By the time of Hans Dynasty, the use of bamboo to make paper had significantly increased. The Chinese people did not reveal the manufacturing process until some of the papermakers the Turkish invaders captured a few prominent papermakers in the battle. The first ever, full-fledged paper industry was set up in Baghdad in the year 793 AD.
Bamboo as a Flooring Type
Even today, bamboo is an essential part of the paper-making industry. Years passed, and the use of Bamboo k
ept on evolving. In the late 20th century, bamboo appeared as a floor covering and made its place in the international market. It was so beautiful that it is caught the attention of people from all around the globe.
Bamboo Flooring in the United Kingdom
It took the people of the UK a few years to adopt bamboo as a flooring type, a material they used as fishing poles, and chopsticks. Its eco-friendly nature, sustainability, durability, and perfectly pleasing aesthetics contributed to making bamboo flooring widely accepted, not only in the US but all around the world.
Today, bamboo flooring is available in various styles and colors. The bamboo flooring industry is rapidly evolving as people are choosing an environmental-friendly flooring option as going green is the new trend!