Earthquake Resistant Analysis for Design of Bamboo Reinforced Housing

This study is directed to the application of bamboo as alternative material in civil
construction. The study also extends to discuss the new applications of bamboo
Angustifolia Kunth in construction, such as shear walls and bamboo boards. The
investigation involved the following tasks: (a) Evaluation of physical and mechanical
properties of bamboo Angustifolia Kunth; (b) Proposing a new type of joint
(connection) using culms and natural coupling assembly which can be used in bamboo
frame structures. Bamboo dowels are used to create a monolithic joint to support
gravitational and lateral forces efficiently; (c) Evaluating the behavior of bamboo
Angustifolia Kunth through extensive laboratory work in order to determine the stresses
that structural elements such as columns and beams can support under the action of
gravitational and lateral external load, and then comparing with the permissible stresses
given by the design and construction codes in each region; and (d) Conducting
theoretical dynamic analysis of bamboo frame structures using Newmark Beta method
and experimental validation to determine maximum values of acceleration, velocity and displacement. The information needed for this analysis are
taken from the earthquake El Centro in California on 1940.
From the results of this study, it can be concluded that the use of Angustifolia
Kunth bamboo for civil structures composed only of bamboo elements offer safety, are
economical and offers rapid construction method. This is very suitable for tropical and
semitropical places preferably at an average of 2500 meter above the sea level, and
advisable if they are located around the fire belt susceptible to seismic forces and
earthquakes. It may be an ideal solution for low income populations in need of an
immediate housing solution.