Bamboo fiber preparation methods can be divided into two types:

1. Mechanical method

2. Chemical method

Mechanical methods give natural bamboo fibers and involve flax production whereas chemical methods are of two types namely Bamboo Viscose Rayon method and Bamboo Lyocell method.

The preparation of rough and fine bamboo fiber is different. Rough bamboo fiber preparation does not involve harsh treatments like the use of bleaches and acids and soaking in oil. Preparation of rough bamboo fiber involves the following steps (Yao and Zhang 2011; Fig. 2.1):

1. Cutting of the stem

2. Separation

3. Boiling

4. Fermentation with the enzyme

The preparation of fine bamboo fiber is much similar to that of rough but also includes additional steps. The overall process involves (Yao and Zhang 2011):

1. Boiling

2. Fermentation with enzyme

3. Wash and bleach

4. Acid treatment

5. Oil soaking

6. Air-drying