Jump to content

Draft:BamCore

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Global Bamboo Technologies Inc. (BamCore) is an American-based company that manufactures pre-fabricated, carbon-negative, panelized framing systems for buildings.[1][2][3][4] The company’s principal operations are located in Ocala, FL, with a second fabrication and sales operation in the original Windsor, CA location.[5]

History

[edit]

The company was founded as BamCore LLC in 2008 by William McDonald in Windsor, California. Drawing from more than 20 years of experience as a framing contractor and truss builder, McDonald pursued the idea of hollow (stud-less) walls to overcome increasing frustration with the quality of framing lumber. Conversations with a fellow framer turned his attention to timber bamboo as a fiber source with enough strength to replace rows of studs. McDonald subsequently developed two prototypes in his garage, leading to the first two patents for BamCore.[5] William (Hal) Hinkle met McDonald in 2014 when Hinkle was looking to build a carbon-zero home and winery. In 2015, Hinkle became an investor and manager of the LLC to focus on building code compliance and product-market fit, bringing on Zack Zimmerman to help commercialize the product. In 2017, McDonald retired, and Hinkle assumed leadership of the LLC.[1][5] In 2019, the company was recapitalized as Global Bamboo Technologies Inc. and  continues to operate under the name BamCore today with Hinkle as CEO and Zimmerman as CCO.

Before joining BamCore, Hinkle had a successful 22-year career on Wall Street with Goldman Sachs, following which he founded and sold the financial trading platform BrokerTec Global and served on several Boards of Directors or Advisors, including: the Sonoma Land Trust, the University of California-Berkeley’s Food Institute and The Sonoma County Regional Climate Protection Agency.[5][6][7] Hinkle earned a BS  (Cum Laude) in Biochemistry from University of CA Irvine, an MBA (Beta Gamma Sigma), an MPhil, an MS and a PhD in Neuroscience from Columbia University and was named a Graduate Research Fellow of the National Science Foundation for three years.[6][7] He is also the founder of the Hinkle Charitable Foundation, which supports climate change initiatives as well as musical and nutritional education, the World Bamboo Foundation,[8] which seeks to advance the commercializing of timber bamboo as a critical tool to decarbonize the building sector, and Sei Querce Vineyards in Geyserville, CA, the first winery to be dually certified as both organic and climate adapted, having been in the first cohort to pass the certification.[9] In 2022, he was named a “Construction Visionary” by the Construction Institute.[10]

CCO  Zimmerman earned a Bachelor of Science in Business and Marketing from Sonoma State University, and was recognized in 2023 as an Autodesk “Top 40 under 40”.[11] Prior to BamCore, he worked at Sei Querce Vineyards.[12][13]Zimmerman grew up in the construction industry with family members specializing in winery construction.

BamCore’s mission is to decarbonize the built world by utilizing nature’s fastest regenerating structural fibers, including bamboo, Eucalyptus and fast-growing pine species. Within that mission, the company designs its products to help builders and developers lower the carbon, cost, time and labor of building. [14][15][16] The company has engineered, and holds, over 34 patents and trademarks across 9 countries for multiple building components and industrial applications made from fast-growing fibers, which are stronger than those used in conventional building products. [17][18][19] Sources for its structural fibers range from Asia to South America and Africa.[20]  The company has developed a proprietary job engineering digital platform with support from Autodesk in order to deploy modern, industrialized construction techniques.[2][3][14][15][19]

In early 2024, BamCore partnered with D.R. Horton, Inc., the U.S.’s largest homebuilder, to develop and test the company’s newest product -- MonoShear. In October 2024, BamCore announced a pre-purchase agreement with Horton for approximately one hundred MonoShear homes.[21]

In October 2024, the company announced an investment made by Builders FirstSource, Inc. (BFS), the  largest building products supplier in the US. The investment includes broader cooperation between the two companies for various co-marketing activities[21]  and a BFS representative on the Board of Directors.

Product Overview

[edit]

BamCore currently produces two building code-compliant, low-rise framing solutions -- the DuoShear wall assembly, a double-panel assembly that was first commercialized in 2017, [19] and the MonoShear wall assembly, introduced in 2024, which simplifies the construction sequencing by forming an open cavity with only one load-bearing (exterior) panel and a non-load bearing (interior) panel. The MonoShear open cavity permits easier and faster installation of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and insulation.

DuoShear possesses load bearing capacity for use in buildings up to five stories and MonoShear is designed for entry-level, residential construction up to three stories. The two assemblies are each patented and use BamCore’s patented Prime WallTM panels.[3][19] Both wall assemblies can minimize the use of in-cavity framing by up to 94% to significantly improve the thermal[22][23] and acoustic properties of the wall, which results in a vertical frame that performs like a thermos,[19][20][23][22] permitting negligible heat and air transfer while also being acoustically opaque when compared to conventional, stud-based framing.[3][19][24][25]

DuoShear and MonoShear assemblies are custom pre-fabricated to each job, cut precisely for size, shape and location and include all the necessary cuts made for windows, doors, outlets, switches, plumbing access and inspections. In the DuoShear assembly, “keystone” panels can be included that are completely removable at any time before the finish work is completed. A significant innovation in both assemblies, is the patented MEPI Map, which can be printed directly on the face of each panel. This color-coded visual guide identifies the panel and its location, can show the precise location of each nail fastener and can display the installation paths intended for the mechanical, electrical and plumbing rough-in, as well as quantities needed for each blown-in insulation location.[23][18][17] Together, these systems ensure a quick and easy installation process, minimal jobsite waste, and reduced job-site expertise and equipment to install the vertical frame and complete the MEPI rough-ins.[1][5][14][15][16]

The Prime Wall™ panels utilized in the DuoShear and MonoShear framing systems are comprised of either (a) a proprietary bamboo-wood hybrid panel or (b) a proprietary Eucalyptus-pine hybrid panel, also called a “Euc Super Combi.” Both assemblies can be provided with an interior-facing medium density overlay (MDO) paper to assist with interior finishing, which in some instances eliminates the need for dry wall (dry wall substitute) on the panels themselves.[19][26]

Technology Platform

[edit]

Technologically, BamCore operates a proprietary Design, Bid, Build (DBB) 3-D digital modeling platform that centers around panelization algorithms using the Autodesk Revit software, a 3-D Building Information Modeling (BIM) application. The DBB platform takes a customer’s 2-D CAD job file, converts it to a 3-D BIM file, completes a range of spatial clash detections throughout the wall cavities, divides the wall sections into panelized sections, produces job-drawings (shop drawings) for the customer’s approval and then issues machine instructions to control the factory-based, custom CAM pre-fabrication and palletization. Autodesk, through its accelerator subsidiary, Autodesk Foundation, has both invested in BamCore and collaborated extensively in the development of the DBB platform, starting in 2020.[5][19][20][25][24]

BamCore has also patented an approach to design optimization called LOBIC (Load Optimized Biogenic Industrialized Construction), a technology used in the manufacturing of the DuoShear and MonoShear framing systems.[27] This approach optimizes the selection, positioning and fabrication of the Prime WallTM structural panels for load grade, carbon footprint, speed of fabrication, simplicity of installation, blocking utilization, cost efficiency or other objectives.[1][16][19][20][26]

Sustainability Research

[edit]

BamCore conducts research and publishes papers on building decarbonization and biobased carbon removal. In 2020, the company released a study titled Carbon Farming with Timber Bamboo: A Superior Sequestration System Compared to Wood.[28] This study presented a model of biogenic carbon flows from forest to building, expanding on an earlier US Forestry Service model that focused solely on wood. The study introduced the Carbon Benefit Multiple (CBM), a metric for comparing carbon flows of different biogenic fibers, considering discounted time values and various climate scenarios.

The company has also published several position papers, including: Our Green Down Payment: Fighting Climate Change by Turning Buildings into Carbon Sinks with Timber Bamboo[29], DAC+BAC: A Diversified Approach to Carbon Removal, [30]and Eucalyptus: An Overlooked Resource to Drive CO2 Removal and Building Decarbonization[31]

In addition to these publications, BamCore has contributed to peer-reviewed research in the field of sustainable construction and carbon sequestration. Three recent papers published in the journal Sustainability have explored the potential of fast-growing fibers for building decarbonization and carbon sequestration:

Evaluating Fast-Growing Fibers for Building Decarbonization with Dynamic LCA,[32] published in January 2025, this study used dynamic life cycle assessment (DLCA) to evaluate the climate impact of fast-growing fibers in construction. The research compared traditional framing materials to bamboo-hybrid and Eucalyptus-hybrid systems. Key findings included negative CO2eq values for fast-growing fiber-based framing systems, indicating a net cooling effect.

Increasing Carbon Sequestration, Land-Use Efficiency, and Building Decarbonization with Short Rotation Eucalyptus, [33] this February 2025 paper examined the potential of short-rotation Eucalyptus for carbon sequestration and building decarbonization. The study highlighted the rapid growth cycle of Eucalyptus compared to common North American softwoods and its potential for significant carbon sequestration when used in engineered wood products.

Also published in February 2025, From Problems to Possibilities: Overcoming Commercialization Challenges to Scale Timber Bamboo in Buildings [34]this paper addressed the challenges and potential of scaling timber bamboo in construction. It identified two primary uses for timber bamboo in climate change mitigation: engineered building components and biochar production. The paper also highlighted challenges in scaling commercial bamboo plantations compared to traditional wood forestry operations.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d BamCore. (n.d.). BamCore. Retrieved from https://www.bamcore.com/
  2. ^ a b Infinite Frontiers. (2024, May). Bamboo for the built world with BamCore’s Hal Hinkle. Retrieved from https://infinitefrontiers.io/conversations/bamboo-for-the-built-world-with-bamcores-hal-hinkle/
  3. ^ a b c d Bearne, S. (2023, November). Can bamboo be big in construction? BBC. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/business-67402112
  4. ^ AutoDesk Foundation. (2024). BamCore portfolio: Carbon negative walls for green construction. Retrieved from https://www.autodesk.org/portfolio/bamcore
  5. ^ a b c d e f North Bay Biz. (2022). The BamCore way. Retrieved from https://www.northbaybiz.com/2022/04/01/the-bamcore-way/
  6. ^ a b Oberhaus, D. (2023). One man’s quest to tackle climate change with wine, bamboo, and neurobiology. Columbia Magazine. Retrieved from https://magazine.columbia.edu/article/one-mans-quest-tackle-climate-change-wine-bamboo-and-neurobiology
  7. ^ a b Hinkle Charitable Foundation. (n.d.). Hinkle Charitable Foundation. Retrieved from https://www.thehcf.org/work
  8. ^ World. (2014). World Bamboo Foundation. World Bamboo Foundation. https://www.worldbamboofoundation.org/steering-committee
  9. ^ Press Release. (2024, May 24). Sonoma County Vineyards Are First to Achieve Climate Adaptation Certification. Wine Industry Advisor. https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2024/05/24/local-vineyards-are-first-to-achieve-climate-adaptation-certification/
  10. ^ Construction Institute announces 2022 winter-spring programs. (2022). Nerej.com. https://nerej.com/construction-institute-announces-2022-winter-spring-programs
  11. ^ Campbell, K., (2023, Dec). 40 Under 40: Champions of Construction 2023. https://www.autodesk.com/blogs/construction/40-under-40-champions-of-construction-2023/
  12. ^ Sei Querce. (2020). Sei Querce. Retrieved from https://seiquerce.com/
  13. ^ LinkedIn. (n.d.). Zack Zimmerman profile. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/in/zack-zimmerman-4b6005b/
  14. ^ a b c Quackenbush, J. (2013). Startup bets on bamboo panel construction. Northbay Business Journal. Retrieved from https://www.northbaybusinessjournal.com/article/industry-news/startup-bets-on-bamboo-panel-construction/
  15. ^ a b c Crunchbase. (2024). BamCore organization profile. Retrieved from https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/bamcore
  16. ^ a b c Morton, B. (2024). Sustainable construction solutions that reduce time, labor, and cost. AutoDesk Foundation. Retrieved from https://www.autodesk.com/autodesk-university/class/Sustainable-Construction-Solutions-Reduce-Time-Labor-and-Cost-2020
  17. ^ a b Chen, Y., Zhang, Y., & Liu, H. (2019). Mechanical properties of bamboo and its application in construction. Construction and Building Materials, 210, 407-416. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2019.03.070
  18. ^ a b https://ppubs.uspto.gov/pubwebapp/static/pages/ppubsbasic.html
  19. ^ a b c d e f g h i Global Bamboo Technologies. (2024). DuoShear builders guide. Retrieved from https://online.flippingbook.com/view/141976650/
  20. ^ a b c d AutoDesk Construction Cloud. (2024, August). BamCore’s climate smart approach to alternative building solutions. AutoDesk Digital Builders Podcast. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Oox8hltz3Y
  21. ^ a b Sheldon, T. (2024, October 14). BamCore Announces Strategic Collaborations with D.R. Horton and Builders FirstSource. EIN Presswire. https://www.einpresswire.com/article/751721367/bamcore-announces-strategic-collaborations-with-d-r-horton-and-builders-firstsource
  22. ^ a b Sheldon, T. (2023). Building for tranquility. BamCore News. Retrieved from https://www.bamcore.com/post/building-for-tranquility
  23. ^ a b c Bourgeois, M., Guo, M., & Reeb, J. (2020). Thermal performance of bamboo-based composite materials. Journal of Building Performance, 11(3), 39-50. https://doi.org/10.3801/JBP.2020.11.3.39
  24. ^ a b AutoDesk Foundation. (2023, September). How bamboo and the cloud are pioneering the latest green building techniques. Retrieved from https://www.autodesk.com/design-make/videos/green-building-techniques
  25. ^ a b Kazmer, R. (2024, January). With the help of a computer, this invasive plant could become fast affordable housing: Shaping the future of our industry. The Cool Down Tech Company. Retrieved from https://www.thecooldown.com/green-tech/fast-growing-bamboo-eucalyptus-homes-bamcore/
  26. ^ a b Global Bamboo Technologies. (2023). Listing and technical evaluation report, by DR. J. Retrieved from https://www.bamcore.com/_files/ugd/77318d_f1ae237d2cbd47f996390358233380d1.pdf
  27. ^ Hinkle, W. H., & Allan, N. T. (2022). Systems and method for optimizing industrialized construction capacities of a building structure (WO2024040233A1). Global Bamboo Technologies Inc. World Intellectual Property Organization. https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2024040233A1/en?oq=PCT%2fUS2023%2f072490
  28. ^ Hinkle, H., McGinley, M., Hargett, T., & Dascher, S. (2019). Carbon farming with timber bamboo: A superior sequestration system compared to wood. BamCore. Retrieved from https://www.bamcore.com/_files/ugd/77318d_568cbad9ac2e443e87d69011ce5f48b2.pdf?index=true
  29. ^ Hinkle, H. (2021). Our green down payment: Fighting climate change by turning buildings into carbon sinks with timber bamboo. International Union of Forestry Research Organizations (IUFRO) World Day. Retrieved from https://www.bamcore.com/_files/ugd/77318d_f610ef826ebf4705a4a110f980bda4b2.pdf?index=true
  30. ^ Hinkle, H., Terheyden, J, Hargett, T., Sheldon, T & Allan, N. (2022). Dac + Bac A Diversified Approach to Carbon Removal. Retrieved from https://www.bamcore.com/_files/ugd/77318d_4e238c6b592044ada18264cc48e9cf3e.pdf?index=true
  31. ^ Hinkle, H., Chilton, K., Oshun, L., & Silva, J. (2024). Eucalyptus: an Overlooked Resource to Drive CO2 Removal and Building Decarbonization. Retrieved from https://www.bamcore.com/_files/ugd/77318d_050b225f84c94781b59e8ac71846481e.pdf
  32. ^ Chilton, K., Arehart, J., & Hinkle, H. (2025). Evaluating Fast-Growing Fibers for Building Decarbonization with Dynamic LCA. Retrieved from https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/17/2/401
  33. ^ Chilton, K., Otavio C., Allan,N., & Hinkle, H. (2025). Increasing Carbon Sequestration, Land-Use Efficiency, and Building Decarbonization with Short Rotation Eucalyptus. Retrieved from https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/17/2/401
  34. ^ Chilton, K., Kadivar M., & Hinkle, H. (2025). From Problems to Possibilities: Overcoming Commercialization Challenges to Scale Timber Bamboo in Buildings. Retrieved from https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/17/2/401
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Draft:BamCore&oldid=1277474374"