Fracture Mechanisms Of Laminated Bamboo Under Four-Point Bending With Varying Lay-Up Configurations And Notch Ratios Supported By SEM Observations

Authors: Yassine Dahbi, Yao Wu, Huang Xuejian, Hamza Zaouri

Abstract: This study investigates the mechanical properties of laminated bamboo composites through four-point shear bending tests. Eight groups were prepared with various lay-up configurations and two notches with different initial notch-to-depth ratios to assess the effect of notch size and fibre orientation on fracture behaviour. The test programme was designed to examine the fracture process, specifically focusing on crack initiation, crack growth, and ultimate failure, while also recording load–CMOD, load–displacement, and load–CMSD responses. Fracture surfaces after the test will also be investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to provide microstructural data on crack mechanisms and modes of failure. From comparison of the results of all configurations, the research identifies the best lay-up design in terms of strength, toughness, and energy absorption. Such data is extremely valuable for enhancing laminated bamboo structures from an engineering point of view.

DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17091419