It is designed to be a replacement for wood[1] or engineered wood, but is used only when high load bearing strength is not required[2] because building standards for this type of use have not been agreed by regulatory bodies.
[6] Engineered bamboo has been used as paneling, vehicle beds, concrete formworks,[2] lightweight building construction[7] and even for shelters after the 2004 tsunami.
[8] In comparison to the woods that have been traditionally used, a number of benefits and drawbacks have been identified.
Lower cost, especially when replacing wood that would otherwise have been imported, is a key advantage.
[9] Further benefits include greater hardness and shape retention, especially in high temperatures.