Evaluation of the mechanical properties of cross laminated bamboo panels by digital image correlation and finite element modelling

Guadua angustifolia Kunth (Guadua) is a bamboo species native to South and Central America that has been widely used for structural applications in small and large scale buildings, bridges and temporary structures. Guadua remains a material for vernacular construction associated with high levels of manual labour and structural unpredictability. The aim of this work is to develop standardised industrial structural products from Guadua and to measure and predict their mechanical behaviour. Cross laminated Guadua (CLG) panels comprised of three and five layers were manufactured and their mechanical properties evaluated by testing small and large specimens in compression and shear. The digital image correlation (DIC) method was used to measure strain variations in the X, Y and Z axes on the surface of small CLG panels with strain gauge measurements on the reverse face. The deformation of large CLG panels was measured using DIC on the front face and transducers on the reverse face. The results from mechanical tests and DIC were compared and a finite element (FE) model developed that predicts the response of the material. Overall, this study provides guidelines for structural design with engineered bamboo products which are of key importance for their mainstream use.