Experiment and finite element analysis on load-carrying performance of double-shear connections of inorganic-bonded bamboo composite

Abstract

Bamboo-based composites have emerged as a new type of structural material for green buildings with unique applications. In this study, a novel bamboo-based composite was prepared using inorganic adhesive instead of traditional organic adhesive, which was called “inorganic-bonded bamboo composite”, or “InorgBam” for short. The load-carrying performance of InorgBam bolted double-shear connections was studied by using experimental and finite element (FE) analysis methods. A total of 96 bolted double-shear connections fabricated with four types of bolt diameters were tested. The formulas in current timber design codes were employed to predict the load-carrying capacity of the InorgBam bolted connections. The FE simulation method combined with the orthotropic material properties and the cohesive zone model along the pre-cracking path was explored. Results show that the bolt diameter and thickness of member have a significant impact on the load-carrying capacity and failure mode of InorgBam connections. The accuracy of FE simulation was evaluated by comparing the FE calculations to the experimental results. The validation results indicate that the FE modelling techniques, including material constitutive relationships, consideration of material anisotropy characteristics, contact criteria, and cracking pattern used in this study were reliable for the FE simulation of InorgBam bolted connections.