ULTIMATE LOAD BEHAVIOR OF BAMBOO-REINFORCED LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE BEAMS

The classification of seven bamboos studies in accordance to their physical and mechanical properties, the type and method of application of water repellent treatment of bamboo splints and the bond strength between bamboo and lightweight concrete are described in this paper. The results of the experimental analysis of two simply-supported bamboo-reinforced lightweight concrete beams with an overall length of 340 cm and a cross-section of 12 cm by 30 cm width and height, respectively, subjected to two point loads up to collapse are presented. One beam of the same dimensions and concrete mix reinforced with steel was also tested for comparison of the results. Finally a recommendation based on the analysis of the results for the design of such beams is proposed.