Abstract
Experimental tests and constructive assessments are presented for a simple bamboo framed structure with innovative low-cost and low technology joints, specifically conceived for small buildings in developing countries. Two full scale one-storey bamboo frames have been designed by using the simplest joints solution among three different tested typologies. The entire building process is based on low-technology and natural materials: bamboo canes, wooden cylinders, plywood plates and canapé rods. The first full scale specimen (Unit A) is a one-storey single deck truss structure subjected to monotonic collapse test; the second full scale specimen (Unit B) is a one-storey double deck truss structure used to evaluate the construction time throughout assembling tests. The first full scale specimen showed ductility in collapse and ease in strengthening; the second one showed remarkable ease and speed in assembling structural elements. Finally several constructive solutions are suggested for the design of simple one-storey buildings; they are addressed to four purposes (housing, school, chapel, health center) by the composition of the proposed full scale bamboo frames. Ease of use and maintenance with a low level of technology contribute to application in developing countries although not exclusively.
Highlights
Bamboo is a low-cost building material, widely available in the world; it is lightweight, durable, flexible, and cultivated and processed
As a composite material joined with other structures or organized throughout fibers, demonstrate its full potential as a structural and environmental friendly material
New biocomposite materials with bamboo strips [16] and composed bamboo elements [17] were proposed to extend the traditional use in scaffolding [18] to structural applications
Summary
Bamboo is a low-cost building material, widely available in the world; it is lightweight, durable, flexible, and cultivated and processed. The reduced ductility of bamboo elements is a critical aspect from structural point of view: bamboo is characterized by brittle behavior, mainly for tension forces, and the collapse is, in most cases, caused by longitudinal cracks along the weakest lines. Another negative aspect for traditional bamboo frames is the relative weakness of the joint between the canes. The first full scale specimen (Unit A) tested in the present paper is a single deck trussed structure, made with a couple of frames with a wooden roof, loaded up to collapse with monotonic vertical loads. Several buildings plans with Units A and B in modular schemes are presented for typical one-storey buildings such as housing, schools, small churches and health centers; the aim of this is to contribute to proposals for self-construction activities and encourage their dissemination among building workers in developing countries
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