Numerical Validation of a Standardized Bamboo Structural Design Procedure using Material Parameters of Taiwanese Species

  • Chen, Chang-Xu (National Taiwan University)
  • Yang, Yen-Yu (Feng Chia University)
  • Ou, Li-Ching (Feng Chia University)

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Driven by global priorities on climate change and sustainability, the construction industry is seeking low-carbon, eco-friendly structural materials. Bamboo, with its rapid growth (suitable for construction after just four years), high carbon sequestration, and favourable mechanical properties, is a promising alternative to conventional reinforced concrete and steel. Taiwan has abundant bamboo resources, primarily Moso (Phyllostachys edulis) and Makino bamboo (Phyllostachys makinoi), yet standardized domestic bamboo structural design provisions remain limited. This study proposes a standardized bamboo-structure design procedure that integrates local bamboo properties with the determination of mechanical parameters through numerous experiments and connection tests. The Wuri Waldorf School (Taichung) was selected as a case study to validate the procedure via 3-dimensional finite element analysis of a bamboo system. Bamboo was modeled as an anisotropic material, with elastic moduli and strengths defined for bending, tensile, and compression based on experimental data for the two species. Load evaluation followed local building regulations and wind-resistant design requirements in Taiwan, considering dead load, live load (60 kgf/m²), wind load (terrain B/C with internal/external pressure coefficients), and seismic response-spectrum analysis. 90 load combinations were checked using both Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) and Allowable Strength Design (ASD) methods. Results show that the strength requirements are satisfied: axial–bending interaction checks, as per ISO 22156 [1], yielded stress ratios below 1.0 for all primary bamboo members. Serviceability limits (e.g., L/180 or L/240) were also met for displacements and interstory drifts under live and wind loads. Connection verifications (tension, shear, and bearing) for non-coplanar joints and coplanar splices confirmed adequate resistance against brittle failure. The proposed workflow and parameters provide a practical basis for future Taiwan bamboo structural design provisions and can help lower design barriers for broader engineering adoption.