Literature Review on Bamboo Reinforced Concrete

Abstract: The use of small diameter whole culm (bars) and/or split bamboo (a.k.a. splints or round strips) has often been proposed as an alternative to relatively expensive reinforcing steel in reinforced concrete. The motivation for such replacement is typically cost-bamboo is readily available in many tropical and sub-tropical locations, whereas steel reinforcement is relatively more expensive-and more recently, the drive to find more sustainable alternatives in the construction industry. This review addresses such 'bamboo-reinforced concrete' and assesses its structural and environmental performance as an alternative to steel reinforced concrete. A prototype three bay portal frame, that would not be uncommon in regions of the world where bamboo-reinforced concrete may be considered, is used to illustrate bamboo reinforced concrete design and as a basis for a life cycle assessment of the same. The authors conclude that, bamboo is a material with extraordinary mechanical properties, its use in bamboo-reinforced concrete is an considered concept, having significant durability, strength and stiffness issues, and dmeet the environmentally friendly credentials often attributed to it.

Keywords: Bamboo, Reinforcement, Structure, Sustainable, New Technology