Bamboo Reinforced Glulam Beams: An Alternative to CFRP Reinforced Glulam Beams

Abstract

A research study was undertaken to investigate the mechanical performance of glulam beams reinforced by CFRP or bamboo. Local reinforcement is proposed in order to improve the flexural strength of glulam beams. The glulam beam is strengthened in tension and along its sides with the carbon fiber-reinforced polymer CFRP or bamboo. A series of CFRP reinforced glulam beams and bamboo reinforced glulam beams were tested to determine their load-deformation characteristics. Experimental work for evaluating the reinforcing technique is reported here. According to experiment results, the CFRP and bamboo reinforcements led to a higher glulam beam performance. The results show a considerably improved stiffness of the reinforced over the non-reinforced specimens. By using CFRP and bamboo reinforcements several improvements in strength may be obtained.