In 1964 U.S. army engineer studied about the chances to use bamboo as construction material in precast concrete elements. For estimating the load carrying capacity of precast concrete elements with use of bamboo reinforcing, procedures of strength design were used. Now usage of bamboo was given paramount importance for reinforcement in soil cement pavement slab in where slabs behaved as non-elastic even under light weight.
Using of bamboo is way more affordable and easier to use.
Selection of Bamboo
1. Users have to use only those types of bamboo which already showed a brown color. The bamboo plant must be 3 years old.
2. Users have to select longest large diameter culms.
3. Users must not use whole part of green unseasoned bamboo.
4. They must avoid to cut the bamboo in spring or early summer. This time fiber of bamboo is weaker because of fiber moisture content.
Preparation of Bamboo
Sizing: Splints are more suitable than whole culms as reinforcement. Larger shaped culms must be split approx. ¾ inch wide. Whole culms less than ¾ in diameter can be used also.
Seasoning: Users have to cut and dry the bamboos for three to four weeks before using. The culms should be helped to reduce warping.
Bending: If users apply heat, dry or wet then bamboo can be permanently bent. This procedure is used to form splints into C shaped stirrups and to put hooks on reinforcement.
Waterproof Coating: Seasoned bamboo should coated with waterproof thing for reducing swelling in contact with concrete. Without any coating bamboo can be swell before concrete got the sufficient strength for preventing crack. Type of coating is depending upon the material. Brush coat or dip coat of asphalt emulsion is good for this. Apart from this native latex, coal tar, paint, dilute varnish and also water glass are also suitable coating.
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Published By
Global Associates
www.constructioncost.co
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