Mechanical properties of bamboo after exposure to low temperatures

Abstract

Interest in bamboo as a building material has recently expanded beyond regions traditionally associated with its use. Advantages of bamboo over conventional building materials include a short harvesting time and competitive mechanical properties. This research evaluates the extent to which colder climates may affect the viability of bamboo as a building material in countries with shorter construction seasons. Phyllostachys edulis (Moso) bamboo samples were subjected to freeze–thaw (FT) cycles under wet and dry conditions, and over 100 small-scale tests were performed. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests suggest that FT cycles did not significantly affect tensile properties or shear strength perpendicular-to-culm, nor the mechanical properties of samples tested in dry conditions. However, FT in wet conditions resulted in a statistically significant reduction in compressive and shear parallel-to-culm strength of 18% and 21%, respectively. The results suggest that bamboo may be a potentially viable building material in colder climates if protected against excessive moisture ingress.