Proposal for stress-strain constitutive models for laminated bamboo at elevated temperatures

Abstract

Due to the negative impacts of global warming and climate change, there is a growing demand for sustainable load-carrying materials that can offer an alternative to other traditional construction materials such as concrete and steel. Laminated bamboo is a material with outstanding physical and mechanical properties, in addition to producing a minimum carbon footprint. However, extensive research is needed on the load-bearing behaviour of bamboo during and after fire before engineered bamboo can be used with confidence in higher and larger bamboo-based structures. This paper describes the outcomes of a comprehensive study conducted to understand the mechanical behaviour of bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens species) at elevated temperatures; more specifically investigating the reduction of compressive and tensile strength, as well as the Modulus of Elasticity (MoE) up to 250°C. Findings from this work show that at 200°C, bamboo retains 20%, 42% and 70% of the compressive strength, tensile strength and modulus of elasticity at ambient, respectively. The results presented herein, which provide a thorough understanding of strength and elasticity reduction at elevated temperatures, enable the development of stress-strain constitutive models that will constitute the basis for designing fire-safe bamboo structures.