Bamboo design and construction

Abstract This chapter covers a series of topics related to the design and construction of bamboo buildings. The introduction of the chapter is focused on the bamboo species suitable for construction applications, the development of bamboo-based products and the type of structures that are typically designed and built with bamboo. Then, the anatomy of bamboo culms, physical and mechanical properties, some preservation methods and fire performance based on the latest research are covered. Also, design considerations such as bamboo testing and structural design standards and building codes are presented. An important part of the chapter focuses on the design procedure of members subjected to bending, axial and combined forces, as well as the design of shear walls. An overview of different types of connections between bamboo members and dowel connection capacity is presented. Finally, fabrication and construction of bamboo buildings are covered, taking into account local experiences reported in the Colombian Building Code, NSR-10 ( AIS, 2010 ).