Bamboo Thesis

Republic of the Philippines
CAMARINES SUR POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES

Nabua, Camarines Sur
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
Chapter 1
THE PROBLEM
Introduction
The trend on the global economy side by side with the growing human
population on our planet spells so much of our future. With an increase of
consumption per capita, the market for all most all commodities will be broad
less. And with huge number of consumers, this could mean scarcity of supply
at some point.
This could be particularly true in the demand for natural resources
such as wood. Rapid extraction of these resources will deplete the forest
which may cause supply shortage. This scenario can be even more
devastating as climate change comes in limelight. To successfully reverse the
current trend of forest degradation, experts continuously search for alternative
materials that can be use aside from wood. One of these materials is
bamboo.
Bamboo is not an indigenous material well known to civil engineers.
Lack of reliable technical information lead this local material as foreign and
unviable.
In todays society, recognition of bamboo as conventional construction
materials is growing due to its natural characteristics and good mechanical

properties. As a matter of fact, some regions in the world continue to use
bamboo structures up to this day (Xiao et. al., 2008).
The many characteristics of bamboo made it an enduring, versatile and
highly renewable resource, because of its strength, flexibility and versatility,
bamboo culms have been used mainly in housing and for other construction
purposes (e.g. bridges, scaffoldings) for centuries, particularly in rural areas.
Bamboo provides pillars, walls, window frames, rafters, room separators,
ceilings and roofs for houses. Other uses of bamboo are many and varied. It
is used in the making of furniture, handicrafts, musical instruments, basket
ware, matting, rayon and paper, and is used as food (bamboo shoots), fodder
and fuel wood. Relatively few species of bamboo are, however, currently used
on a commercial scale. Apart from traditional uses, bamboo has many new
applications as a substitute for fast depleting wood and as an alternative to
more expensive materials. Bamboo's potential for checking soil erosion and
for road embankment stabilization are now becoming known. It is equally
important for providing fast vegetative cover to deforested areas (Inbar).
Bamboo, as one of the fastest generators of bio-mass, is also becoming
important in the sequestration of CO2 . For construction purposes, bamboo
can basically be used in its natural form as round culm or transformed

through a manual, semi-industrial or industrial process in different
construction products (Flander).
This natural resource has played a major role in the livelihood of rural
people and in rural industry, especially in tropical regions, such as Philippines,
bamboo has diverse and functional and qualified as a good measure against
land degradation and use for house hold utilities such as containers, fishing
poles, handicrafts, furnitures, etc. It has also been widely used in building
applications, such as flooring, ceiling, walls, windows, doors, fences, housing
roofs, trusses, rafters and purling. It is also extended to different engineering
field in industrial applications, construction and structural materials for
bridges, water transportation facilities, panel board, scaffoldings and bamboo
is used as mean of transportation.
Despite its many theoretical advantages, the widespread engineers
use of bamboo is still hindered by many problems, one of those are the
perceived inadequate durability. Since bamboo is a natural material of organic
origin, unlike variety of timber, bamboo has a short service life of structural
made. The presence of starch make it more attractive to micro-organism that
will result cracks and degradation that can affect the usage, strength, utility
and value of the bamboo. Treatment is absolutely necessary when bamboo is
used as structural member where safety is one of the major concerns. It is

one way to extend its life through processing and construction method that
minimize the attack of fungi and insect.
Early Filipino used the method of leaching in salt water to deplete the
starch content of the bamboo and to reduce insect infection. The purpose of
immersion or by any other means is to allow the salt to "destroy" or change
the composition of the starch material in the bamboo. By having salt mix with
it, it becomes unpalatable to the hatched larvae, thus inhibiting their growth.
The salt water helps remove starch and also enhances permeability for future
treatment by diffusion and pressure.
Treating bamboo using conventional and chemical methods are
intended to increase the life span service of the bamboo and their products.
However, questions arise on whether the treatments process will affect the
strength properties of the bamboo. Studies on bamboo strength properties in
natural condition have been conducted by several researchers. However, the
study on the strength properties of bamboo after preservative treatment is still
lacking. This has led to confusion regarding the effectiveness of the individual
treatments as well as uncertainty about the effect that the treatment methods
have on mechanical properties.
For consideration of bamboo preservation, knowledge of available
methods, their advantages and disadvantages are concern.

Aware of these issues, the researchers find it interesting to investigate
the tensile strength of bambusa blumeana bamboo immersed in salt-water
and fresh water. The researcher foresight is an innovative way to improve the
indigenous and potential materials using the traditional and conventional way
of treating and preserving the bamboo for the benefit of the mankind.
However, these materials should undergo necessary evaluation and
observation to know its potential and uses.
Objective
The main objective of this research was to study the tensile strength of
conventional -treated bamboo (immersed in salt water and immersed in fresh
water) by investigating the properties of bamboo species bambusa
blumeana. Moreover, tensile strength analysis of bamboo was made with an
intention of addressing the feasibility of bamboo in application for structural
use.
Generally the following points were the specific objectives of this
research;
1. To determine the physical properties of Bambusa blumeana
bamboo in terms of moisture content, dry density, shrinkage and swelling
deformation and absorption for the following conditions:
a. Natural air-dried
b. Immersed in Fresh water
c. Immersed in Salt water
2. To ascertain the tensile strength of Bambusa blumeana bamboo
for the following condition:
3. To verify the pH value of saltwater and fresh water.
4. To find out the significant difference in tensile strength among
the air-dried bamboo, immersed in salt water and immersed in fresh water for
different curing period.
5. To formulate recommendation for the possible design
application of conventional-treated bamboo in construction industry.
Assumption
This study is premised and guided by the following assumptions:
1. The physical properties of bambusa blumeana bamboo in terms
of moisture content, dry density, shrinkage and swelling deformation, and
absorption for all conditions are present and conform to the researchers
formulated specification.
2. Tensile strength of immersed bambusa blumeana bamboo is
stronger and expected to be used for any structure whose strength allowed is
applicable.
3. The pH value of the fresh water to be used is within 6.5 to 9
while for the saltwater; the accepted pH value must within 7.5 to 8.4.
4. The outcome of this research work using conventional-treated
bamboo can be used as potential materials in the construction industry.
Hypothesis
There is no significant difference in the tensile strength of bambusa
blumeana bamboo among different condition.
Significance of the Study
The out-come of this thesis is practically relevant by contributing to the
achievement of the above mentioned indirect aim of this research. Transfer
of technology benefiting the groups in society such as community for the
awareness on the potential of treated bamboo as construction materials
substitute to other expensive materials.
This study will help also to lessen the problems on deforestation and
forest degradation since bamboo can be used as a substitute for timber. Less
consumption of wood would decrease the devastating effect to the
environment. Of all advantages, this study help the bamboo industry to

increase the supply of potential commercialize bamboo for worldwide
products and extended its industrial application.
Bamboo allows greater flexibility in designing and construction.
Through this study, engineers/contractor will be provided with additional
information about the advantages of conventional-treated bamboo and the
uses as alternative for timber and steel. Of all advantages of bamboo and the
additional information of this study, the government will boost to set a plan for
the increase of bamboo plantation and production within the country.
This research has a scientific relevance that can be used as a basis for
further study, gaining more insight into the different factors involved in
international technology transfers of bamboo.
Scope and Delimitation of the Study
This study was carried out between November 2011 and March 2012
and has focused in determination of tensile strength of conventional-treated
bamboo, immersed in salt water and fresh water. The subject of the study is
on one variety/specie of bamboo, which is the bambusa blumeana taken from
plantation located at Santiago Old, Nabua. This bamboo sized into a typical
dimension of 10 mm thick x 30 mm wide x 1 m length. Pararao seashore,
Balatan, Camarines Sur were the salt water areas for the study and Bicol
River along Sto. Domingo, Nabua, Camarines were the place/location for
fresh water investigation area. The study delimited in determination of the
physical properties and tensile strength of natural air-dried and immersed
bamboo, the parameters of saltwater and fresh water, and its possible
outcome.
10
End Notes
1. Xiao et. al., 2008, Modern Bamboo Structures, (published by

CRC Press/Balkema, The Netherlands), pp 3
2. Inbar ,www.inbar.int, retrieved November 14, 2011
3. De Flander, Katleen. The role of Bamboo in Global

Modernity: from Traditional to Innovative Construction Material,pp 2
11
Chapter 2
REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
This chapter presents literature and studies, both foreign and local,
which are related to the present study. The researchers gathered information
through reading books, journals and other published and unpublished
materials, magazine, internet and other references related to the study.
Further, synthesis of the state-of-the-art is also presented.
Review of Related Literature and Studies
To give the researchers a wider prospect of the study, the review of the
related study and literature were conducted. From the reviewed materials, the
researchers obtained a prevalent sort of knowledge which was deemed to be
related and relevance that provide insights in the conduct of present study.
Bamboo
In peninsular Philippines, there are 62 species of bamboo mostly from
the genus of Dendrocalamus and subfamily of Bambusa (Rivera). Bamboo,
aptly called the "poor mans timber", is an alternative resource that helps deal
some of the problems affecting the majority of the countries. At the same
12
time, it is a significant resource in the environment and plays a great role in
habitat protection as well as in countrys economic development. Bamboos,
which are perennial woody grasses, can grow in a variety of ecological
environments, ranging from tropical lowland, highland, from rain forest,
deserts, and in many countries throughout the world, especially in Asia, Africa
and Latin America. Bamboos material structure is similar to wood, although
no rays and other radial cell elements exist, and hardly any knots are present.
A bamboo plant consists of a root system and several culms (because
bamboo is a grass, its stem is called a culm). Different from trees, the width
of the culm is already determined during its sprouting, and does not increase
in diameter afterwards. Bamboos can be typified according to their root
system into two types: sympodial (pachymorph, commonly called clumper)
and monopodial (leptomorph,commonly called runner (de Vos, 2010).
A study reported in International Network for Bamboo and Rattan
(INBAR) (2002) considered the advantages and disadvantages of Bamboo
used as a structural material. The advantages found in their study concluded
to be areas of ecological value, good mechanical properties, social and
economic value, and energy consumption. They found disadvantages to be
preservation, fire risk, and natural growth.
Another advantage of this fast growth is its large carbon fixation
capacity, which is about 2 2. 5 times as high as an average production

13
forest. In addition to these major advantages, bamboo provides an excellent
protection against erosion due to its large root network, and has several other
environmental advantages like improvement soil structure, fertility etc. (de
Vos, 2010).
The study of Kassa (2009) discussed the potential of bamboo as an
alternative building material for low cost housing units suitable for urban
Ethiopia. It is a multipurpose plant used for everything from food to fuel and
irrigation systems to construction. The rational for the application of bamboo
comes from its abundance throughout the country, and its proven physical
properties that equate it to other building material like timber, steel and
concrete. His proposed bamboo based design solution concentrates on
simplification of construction methods, prefabrication of structural components
and vertical densification of housing units, addressing the lack of skilled labor,
cost of construction time and urban land respectively. An understanding of the
design solution was established by constructing a full-scale section prototype
and performing laboratory tests on key structural components.
The study of Wahab et al. evaluated the strength properties,
particularly the bending and the compression of preservative treated 2- and 4-
year-old Gigantochloa scortechinii Gamble. The preservatives used in the
study were the ammoniacal-copper-quarterary (ACQ), copper-chrome-arsenic
(CCA) and borax-boric acid (BBA). These preservatives were applied to the
14
bamboo at solution strengths of 2 and 4 % through vacuum impregnation
process. The results indicated that there were overall reductions in strengths
of the bamboo. The strength reduction ranged from 5.0 to 10.7 % for ACQ,
4.4 to 10.3 % for BBA and 4.3 to 9.7 % for CCA treated bamboo. Reductions
in the strengths were found to be dependent on the type of preservative
applied, solution strengths used and their retention in the treated bamboo.
The utilization of bamboo has a very long history in the world,
particularly in Asian countries but also in Africa and Latin America. Especially
where it was available as the main plant and was used as a substitute for
wood in many cases.
The study of Markos Alito (2005) was prepared to assist field personnel
in the design and construction of bamboo reinforced construction mainly for
low-cost houses. The information in this study has been compiled from
laboratory tests. As in the case of other timbers, the tensile strength along the
grain is two or more times the compressive strength. The low strength in
compression parallel to the grains as compared to the strength in tension is
mainly due to the collapse of the cell walls and/or lateral bending of the cells
and fibers. The study also briefs the selection, preparation, placement of
bamboo for reinforcing the concrete. The bond between bamboo
reinforcement and the surrounding concrete is studied by conducting bending
test and pull-out test and found to be satisfactory. Cost comparison between
15
steel and asphalt coated bamboo is presented as per cost breakdown
referring to the present market assessment. As per cost analysis, use of
bamboo reinforcement is a better and economical alternative in view of
overall cost.
Bamboo has more than 1,500 documented uses, categories as Wood
Substitutes and Composites (Bamboo Based Panels, Bamboo Flooring,
Bamboo Sticks for Blinds and Incense Industry, etc), Industrial Use and
Products (Bamboo for Paper and Pulp, Bamboo Charcoal for Fuel, Bamboo
Based Gasified for Electricity, etc.), Food Products (Bamboo shoots), and
Construction and Structural Applications(Bamboo housing).
The history of engineering knowledge with regards to bamboo is
surprisingly recent. The first major work was completed by Janssen (1981) of
the University of Eindhoven, The Netherlands. In his 1981 dissertation,
Janssen first explored the composition of a bamboo culm. He developed a
mathematical model of the culm by considering it to be a structure composed
of a number of substructure cells. Janssen then explored different
mechanical properties of bamboo including bending, shear, tension and
compression. Finally, he explored different truss systems and various ways to
connect bamboo elements.
The United States Naval Civil Engineering Laboratory (2000) reported
a study providing a set of instructions on how to properly construct a variety of

16
structures and structural elements using Bamboo. This study suggested not
to use green, unseasoned Bamboo for general construction, nor to use un-
waterproofed Bamboo in concrete. Concerning Bamboo reinforced concrete,
it was found that the concrete mix designs may be the same as that used with
steel, with a slump as low as workability will allow. It was recommended that
the amount of Bamboo reinforcement in concrete be 3- 4% of the concretes
cross-sectional area as the optimum amount. It concludes that bamboo
reinforced concrete is a potential alternative light construction method at a low
cost.
Physical and Mechanical Properties of Bamboo
The physical and mechanical properties of bamboo depend on the
species, site/soil and climatic condition, cultural treatment, harvesting
technique, age, density, and moisture content, position in the culm, nodes or
internodes and bio-degradation. Many studies had been carried out in order
to highlight and observe these fundamental characteristics, as well as to
maximize bamboo utilization.
Comparing mechanical properties of bamboo fiber with other
engineering materials, bamboo possesses excellent strength properties that
are as good as other building materials like steel, concrete and timber
(Janssen, 1985). The strength of bamboos are associated with their

17
anatomical structure and composition particularly the fibers and parenchyma.
It relies to a large extend on the quantity and quality of fibers. However, the
strength of bamboo varies with respect to species, age, moisture content and
position along the culm. An optimum strength occurs when bamboo attained
its maturity age of around 3-4 years. For this reason bamboo are harvested at
this age especially for structural or other heavy-duty uses. Compressive
strength of the bamboo was found to increase with height. While at the same
time the bending strength showed a decrease value. The compressive and
the bending strength also increased from the inner part to the periphery of the
culm wall. Treating bamboo with preservative is intended to increase the life
span service of the bamboo and their products. However, questions arise on
whether the treatments process will affect the strength properties of the
bamboo.
From the study of Janssen, the most important mechanical property of
bamboo is the mass of the material per unit volume (which is the density)
expressed usually in kg/m3. For most bamboos, the density is about 700-800
kg per cu. m.
Yu et.al., (2008) noted that the relative density of bamboo culm ranged
from 0.553 to 1.006 g per cm-3 and concluded that the tangential shrinkage
from water saturated to oven-dry condition ranged from 4.870 to 7.769%,
while the longitudinal shrinkage from water saturation to oven-dry condition

18
ranged from 0.087 to 0.298%. Yu et. al., paper focuses on Moso or
Phyllostachys edulis Riv. The mean longitudinal tensile modulus of elasticity
ranged from 8.987 to 27.397 GPa and mean longitudinal tensile strength
ranged from 1115.349 to 309.322 Mpa.
According to Yu et al. in their dissertation, bamboo layer had a
significant effect on all of the selected properties. Height also had a significant
effect on all the studied properties except for tensile strength. They discussed
the relative density, tangential shrinkage tensile modulus of elasticity and
tensile strength of bamboo increase greatly from the inner layer outwards.
Moreover, relative density, tangential shrinkage and tensile modulus of
elasticity at 1.3 m were less than those 4.0 meters.
The selection of bamboo species for various applications is not only
related to physical and mechanical properties but also to the chemical
composition. The chemical structure of bamboo fibers is similar to that of
wood. The main component is cellulose (about 57 - 63%) with -cellulose
content of 36 - 41%, lignins (22 - 26%) and penthosans (16 - 21%. The most
significant components in the bamboos chemical constitution are those
providing its extraordinary fungal and bacterial resistance. The one
responsible for bamboos antibacterial properties is 2.6-bimethoxy-p-
benzoquinone, called Bamboo kun. The highly distinctive fungal resistance
occurs due to a protein.

19
Characteristics of Bambusa Blumeana
Bambusa blumeana is native to the Philippines and has a leafy
branchlet with an enlarged top portion beset with thorns. The base of the
clump is densely set with seemingly impenetrable spinybranches and
branchlets. The spiny branches hold the plant firmly during strong winds,
preventing the culms (poles) from lodging. The culm is almost solid at the
base and thick-walled to the middle portion and can reach a diameter of 15
cm. The internodes range from 5 cm long at the base to about 35 cm at the
middle and top portions of the pole. A robust culm can reach 20 m long.
Bambusa blumeana is one of the seven major species recommended for
shoot production in Yunan, China, and is still considered as the best species
for shoots in the Philippines (Rojo 1999). As a grass, it regenerates faster
than wood, has a very short growth cycle, and can be harvested 4 years after
planting. (Malab et al.)
Tensile Strength of Bamboo
Leake et al. found that bamboo fiber has equivalent tensile strength of
650MPa with tensile strength of steel (500- 1000MPa) and much higher
flexibility determined by lower Youngs modulus value of ~50GPa compared to

20
steels ~200GPa. Bamboo fiber material has specific strength comparable
with engineering alloys, ceramics, and bone. In terms of weight-cost relation
bamboo fiber provides even better value than steel.
For his work on the composition of bamboo, Janssen concluded that
an increase in moisture content decreases compressive strength and the
compressive strength increases with the height along the culm from which the
sample was taken (i.e.: compressive strength increases from the bottom to
the top of a culm). For shear stress, Janssen state that the cause of failure for
smaller spans, and the limiting in situ shear stress is much lower than a
typical shear test would indicate. In bending, dry bamboo behaves better;
strength decreases with the height from which the sample is taken from the
culm (i.e.: flexural strength decreases from the bottom to the top of a culm);
and there is a possible relationship between ultimate bending stress and
density and that shear strength and density are related (Derek Randal Mitch).
In addition here, a few outcomes of the researches is discussed in detail.
According to the study of Youngsi Jung, (2006), the tensile test done
with Solid bamboo, approximately 1/8 in (3.2 mm) in thickness, 6 in (152 mm)
in length and with or without node has a maximum stress of 30 ksi (208 Mpa)
which was broken near the grip without crack, and the minimum stress was
20 ksi (138 Mpa) which happened near a parallel crack on the culm and broke
21
secondly at the grip. Generally, most of the specimens are broken between
parallel cracks and at the grip.
For the Solid bamboos without node, 1/8 inches (3.2 mm) in thickness
and 12 inches (304 mm) in length, the test results shows a different behavior
in both stress and strain zone. The curve was shown generally to be linear;
the maximum modified tensile strength was 35 ksi (244 Mpa) with a strain
approximately 0.01 in/in (mm/mm) which occurred at parallel cracks and at
the grip. The minimum stress 6 ksi (39 Mpa) with strain approximately 0.0029
in/in (mm/mm) had failure accruing at the aluminum tab.
Moreover, the tensile test done with the Moso bamboo, with
approximately 1 /8 inches (3.2 mm) in thickness, 6 inches (152 mm) in length
and with or without node. The stress-strain curve shows to be in general
tensile curve, the maximum stress was 33 ksi (229 Mpa) which was broken at
parallel cracks without parallel crack, and the minimum stress was 19 ksi (133
Mpa) which was broken at a parallel crack on the culm and also broken at the
grip. According to the result of the tests, the specimen with no nodes can be
broken at points of high stress 33 ksi (229 Mpa) and high strain value,
approximate 0.14 in/in (mm/mm).
Youngsi Jung concluded that general sample failure was caused by
node failure, splitting failure, and failure at the vicinity of the aluminum tab
also the bond strength of bamboos was lower than that of steel reinforcing
22
bar, approximately 8 Mpa (1160 psi). Also, the bond strength of bamboos was
lower when compared to that of the FRP reinforcing bar, approximately 2.5
Mpa (363 psi).
The study of Zakaria (2005) was conducted to determine the fracture
characteristic and microscopic failure of round bamboo and their relationship
to the strength properties of bamboo loaded in compression, bending and
shear. "Buloh Betong" (Dendrocalamus asper) aged 3 years old was used in
this study. Specimens were taken from intemode and node of bottom, middle
and top portion. All the specimens were tested at 12% of MC. Generally, the
fracture characteristics from three different tests shown variety of failure mode
on each test. The variety of strength properties was found between classified
failure modes on each test. Generally the failure mode occurred at top portion
and at internode part posses significantly greater strength properties
compared to same or different failure mode from bottom, middle and node
part. A slight variation was observed in microscopic failure from all classified
failure mode of each test where the crushing occurred mostly at parenchyma
cells as compared to vascular bundles with minimum crushing effect.
Diversity of Bamboo in Nabua
According to the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist of Nabua, there
are 7, 906 total number of grooves in Nabua. 545 in Malawag, 1, 317 in

23
Angustia, 263 in San Roque Madawon, 426 in Bustruc, 270 in San Esteban,
1, 827 in La Purisima, 338 in Sta. Barbara, 908 in San Antonio Poblacion, 44
in Sta. Lucia, 105 in Lourdes Old, 244 in Lourdes Young, 39 in Antipolo
Young, 91 in Santiago Young, 289 in La Opinion, 194 in Santiago Old, 16 in
Antipolo Old, 23 in San Jose, 119 in Aro-Aldao, 113 in Sagumay, 722 in
Duran, and 113 in San Isidro Inapatan.
Synthesis
The different studies reviewed were similar with the present study in
the use of bamboo as materials for construction and in methodology to
determine the physical properties and strength of materials, also its possible
application. The difference of the present study from the reviewed studies lies
is the fact that the present study made use saltwater and fresh water for
treating bamboo. Determination of the tensile strength of treated bamboo was
its prime concerned.
The study of Bewketu Z. Kassa, (2009), was similar to the present
study in exploration of the potential of bamboo as alternative building
materials. But the previous study concentrate on the base design solution of
simplification of construction materials, prefabrication of structural
components and vertical densification of housing units, addressing the lack of
skilled labor, cost of construction time and urban land respectively while the
24
present study deals on the possible application and the use of treated
bamboo as construction structural materials.
Furthermore, the study of Wahab et al., was similar with the present
study on the method used. Both investigate on the effect of treatment using
preservative on strength properties of bamboo. But it differs on the treatment
and bamboo specimen used.
The research of Markos Alito (2005), was similar with the present study
in terms of materials and experimental method used, but not the same in
extent of the study; the aforementioned study focus on the study of the
physical and mechanical properties of solid bamboo to be used as
reinforcement replacing steel, determination of bond between bamboo
reinforcement and the surrounding concrete and deals also with the
comparison between the cost of bamboo reinforcement and steel
reinforcement in the construction of reinforced concrete houses while the
focal point of present study is on the physical properties and tensile strength
of conventional-treated bamboo to be used as possible materials for
engineering field and deals also with comparative analysis between variation
of strength of bamboo when immersion takes place.
Moreover, the study of Yu et al., (2008) is analogous to the current
study in the aspect of studying the tensile strength of bamboo. But differs in
species used; the present study work on specie of kawayan tinik, or

25
bambusa blumeana while the latter study make use specie of Moso or
Phyllostachys edulis Riv.
The present study is similar to the previous study of Zakaria (2005) for
the reason that it also determine the physical characteristic of bamboo; find
out the significance of bamboo mechanical properties as the basis for
strength determination and analysis for possible application. But it differs on
statistical tools used; the present study work on ANOVA and t-test for the
significance evaluation between the tensile strength of bamboo specimen
among 3 different conditions, while the erstwhile study made use ANOVA and
t-test for investigation on the compressive, bending and shear strength of
bamboo.
26
End Notes
1. Philippine National Report on Bamboo and Rattan, Merlyn N.

Rivera, available:www.inbar.int/documents/country%20report/Philippine.htm,
accessed November 12, 2011.
2. de Vos, Valentin. 2010. Bamboo for Exterior Joinery. (Thesis,

Larenstein University, Netherlands).
3. Janssen, Julius Joseph Antonius. 1985. Bamboo in Building

Structures. (Master Thesis, Eindhoven University of Technology,
Netherlands).
4. Bamboo Reinforced Concrete Construction. U.S. Naval Civil

Engineering Laboratory (2000) Available:
http://www.romanconcrete.com/docs/bamboo1966/BambooReinforcedConcre
te, pp. 1-19, accessed November 20, 2011.
5. Yu et al., Selected Physical and Mechanical Properties of Moso

Bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens), available:
http://www.frim.gov.my/v1/jtfsonline/jtfs/v20n4/258-263.pdf, accessed
December 14, 2011.
6. Mitch, Derek Randal. 2010. Structural Behavior of Grouted-Bar

Bamboo Colum Bases. (Master Thesis, University of Pittsburgh).
7. Jung, Youngsi. 2006. Investigation of Bamboo as Reinforcement

in Concrete. (Master Thesis, University of Texas, Arlington).
8. Kassa, Bewketu Z. 2009. Bamboo: An Alternative Building

Material for Urban Ethiopia. (Master Thesis, California State University, San
Luis Obispo)
9. Wahab et al., Bending and Compressive strength of

Preservatives Treated Bamboo Gigantochloa Scortechinii Gamble,
available: http://wwwsst.ums.edu.my/data/file/C1TKbInKgj4T.pdf, accessed
December 14, 2011
27
10. Alito, Markos. 2005. Bamboo Reinforcement as Structural

Material for the Construction of Low-Cost Housing in Ethiopia. (Master
Thesis, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia).
11. Zakaria, Mohd Nazarudin. 2005, Fracture Characteristics of

Betong Bamboo Culm Loaded in Compression, Bending and Shear.
( Master Thesis, Universiti Teknologi Mara)
28
Chapter 3
MATERIALS AND METHODS
This chapter presents the analysis of the methods together with the
research procedures, material quality test and statistical treatment of the data
of this study.
The study utilized the descriptive and experimental methods for the
development of the study. The descriptive method used in the selection of the
indigenous raw materials and adequate site for treatment. It will also describe
and interprets what the study is all about and the application of procedures,
code and processes used in the study. The experimental method was carried
out by the researchers to investigate the variation between the behavior of the
materials in different condition when subjected to load as to determine is
tensile strength.
According to Carpi and Egger (2008), experimentation is a research
method in which one or more variables are consciously manipulated and the
outcome or effect of that manipulation on other variables is observed.
Experimental methods are commonly applied to determine causal
relationships or to quantify the magnitude of response of a variable. The
researchers utilized this method because the control variable and
experimental variable were applied in evaluating and comparing the behavior

29
of materials in different condition as to determine its tensile strength and
application.
Materials
The researchers made used of the same specie and dimension of
bamboo for both experimental and control groups. The bamboo material
which was tested is described below. See Plate 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 for
representative pictures of bambusa blumeana bamboo culm, and Table 1 for
the physical characteristic of the culm.
Plate 3.1
Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo (Kawayan Tinik)

30
Table 1
Bambusa Blumeana Culm
Sizes
Physical Characteristics
(cm)
Lower end 9.5
Culm Diameter
Upper end 4
Lower end 4
Wall Thickness
Upper end 1
Total Length 2140
Lower end 15
Internodes Length
Upper end 43
Plate 3.2
Bambusa blumeana culm lower end upper end
Plate 3.3
Bambusa blumeana culm internodes length
31
Data Gathering Instruments
Primary source of information was derived from the results of the
experiment to be conducted. Secondary resources came from various related
researches conducted by local and foreign researches.
Research Procedure
Material/Site Investigation. This stage of the study included the
identification of the prospective source of potential specimen through ocular
inspection of bamboo land areas in the locality. Among the species of bamboo
from plantation in the Rinconada area that was visited by the researchers,
bambusa blumeana has been identified as one of the most important and
extensively used specie in the bamboo industry and is the one widely
distributed in Nabua, Camarines Sur. Mature culm of kawayan tinik or
unnamed Bambusa blumeana from the barangay Santiago Old, in the
Municipality of Nabua, Camarines Sur (see Figure 3.1) was the based
barangay where bamboo were obtained to used in this study. Barangay
Pararao seashore, Balatan, Camarines Sur were the sole place and suitable
site for saltwater treatment and Bicol River along Sto Domingo, Nabua,
Camarines Sur as site for fresh water treatment (see Figure 3.2). These two
32
Santiago Old Bamboo

Plantation
Figure 3.1
Location Map of Sampling Area (Google Map)
Bicol River
Pararao Seashore
Figure 3.2
Location Map of Soaking Area (Google Map)

33
locations are the nearest, appropriate and accessible site to convey the study.
Preparation Phase. This phase include the gathering and selection of
specimen from the identified sources. The researchers considered the
following factors in the selection of the bamboo culms to be the subject
sample specimen during the conduct of the laboratory. Only the bamboo
showing a pronounced brown-color appearance and no defect were used
(Brink and Rush). This will ensure that the plant is on the right stage for
harvest and ready for its uses. Automatic physical characteristic
determinations of the sample specimen were being done. Size prefabrication
using sharp knife was used to split the full bamboo culms into the required
splits. After the desired prefabricated sizes, samples were now being ready
for the performance of the required and necessary materials testing. The site
for immersing of bamboo is Pararao, Balatan Camarines Sur and Bicol River
along Sto. Domingo Section Nabua, Camarines Sur was made ready for
treatment. Various facilities for this purpose were made accordingly. Sample
of Salt Water and freshwater were obtained from the site for the determination
of the expected level ph value and its turbidity.
Sample and Sampling Technique. Sampling method was generally
being accomplished in accordance with AASHTO T-2, and sampling reduction
in accordance with the AASHTO T-248. For this research work test samples
were taken from the bamboo plantation in Santiago Old, Nabua, Camarines
34
Sur, the researcher examine the bamboo culm for any defect before felling
(see Plate 3.4). Furthermore, the researchers consider that the bamboo
specimen for testing or to be accepted for evaluation under this study.
Plate 3.4
Sampling of Bamboo Culm
The researchers labeled important information about the bamboo
specimen and stored it for proper preservation of the quality it posses that
may affect the result of this study. Within a week after harvesting, the culm
sample was prefabricating into desired specimen sizes, and the following sets
of sample were investigate.

35
Equipment/Tools/Apparatus Used. In sampling bamboo, the
following were the tools used. Knife, rope, saw gloves, boots and vehicle. In
the performance of Laboratory experiment, specific apparatus were listed
corresponding its test requirements. The Universal testing Machine (UTM) of
Department of Public Works and Highway (Region V), Legaspi City was
utilized in determination of tensile strength of bamboo specimen. Ph value
was forwarded to nearest water laboratory for testing.
Method of Testing. Researchers utilized the specification and
procedure under ISO for materials and guideline for the investigation of the
study. The physical properties and tensile strength of air-dried, immersed in
saltwater and immersed in fresh water bamboo were determined according to
ISO 2004b.
1. Physical Property Test.
a. Test for Moisture Content: The mechanical property and
durability of bamboos are highly related to the moisture content. Moisture
content is the mass of moisture in bamboo expressed as the percentage of
oven dry mass. As the moisture content reduces, the strength of the element
increase and less prone to moulds attack (Alito, 2005).
For the determination of moisture content, oven drying method
was used. The moisture content of each split bamboo specimen was
calculated according to ISO 3130.

36
The arithmetic mean associated with standard deviation of the results
obtained from the individual test specimen was reported as the mean value of
moisture content of the test specimen.
b. Test for Dry Density. ISO 3131 test technique was used to
determine of density the different bamboo species. The specimens were
regular in shape with rectangular cross-section and right angle corners. The
surfaces of the specimen were smooth for accurate measurement of
dimensions. The specimen length, width and thickness were measured at
sufficient number of places to ensure an accurate indication of volume of the
specimen. The dimensions of a typical specimen were 300 mm x 30 mm x 10
mm. The dimensions were measured up to second decimal accuracy.
To determine the dry mass of the specimen, oven-dry method was
used because these will not change irrespective of climate condition. The
weight of the specimen was measured. Based on the volume and the weight
of the specimen measured, density of each specimen was calculated.
The density was reported at the natural moisture content of the test
specimen. The mass was taken as the oven-dry mass and only the volume
was taken at the natural moisture content of the specimen. The density of
each test specimens is calculated using equation for dry density
determination.
37
c. Test for Shrinkage and Swelling Deformation: Bamboo,
like timber changes its dimension when it loses or gain moisture. The
determination of shrinkage and swelling deformation of the member is one of
the areas of concentration in timber construction. Therefore, a method of
determining shrinkage a d swelling of bamboo for mechanical property is to
be applied.
To determine the shrinkage and swelling deformation, ISO 22157-
1 standard was used.
d. Determinations of Absorption. Absorption is the increase in
weight of bamboo due to water in the fibers of the material, but not including
water adhering to the outside surface of the particles.
2. Tensile Strength Test. Tension test was conducted by a method for
tension parallel to the fibers on the specimens made from bamboo culm. The
test covers on the specimen of bamboo immersed in saltwater, freshwater
also natural air-dry bamboo that was conducted to arrive for the ultimate
tensile strength. The test considers factors are moisture content, dry density,
shrinkage deformation, absorption and position of the culm. ISO 3345
standard is used to determine the tensile strength.
3. Determination of pH value. pH value of both saltwater and
freshwater to be used in this investigation is subjected for acidity or alkalinity

38
determination in order to determine if the chosen site is acceptable for
immersion under the desired conditions.
4. Prefabrication/ Sizing/ Dimensioning. In order to conduct the
physical properties investigation and tensile test, it was necessary to prepare
the bamboo specimens. Splits (split culms) are generally more desirable than
whole culms as test specimens. The test pieces were produced in appropriate
workplace, the production process is described below.
Plate 3.5
Productions of the Test Strips
First the 6 meters bamboo culm was saw to the proper length with
dimension 1m as specified. Next, the culm were split lengthwise into 8 strips
using knife (first in halves, then in quarters and finally in eights). Following this
the remaining parts of diaphragms were removed.

39
The shape and size of the test specimen look like the one shown in
(Plate 3.6) below. The thickness of the piece varies throughout its length
since it is a natural material whose properties cannot be controlled strictly.
Plate 3.6
Test Specimen
Experimental Phase. This phase is the investigation part of the study;
it includes the determination of different aspect that affects the mechanical
properties of bamboo especially its tensile strength. This step was a set of
actions and observations performed in the context of solving the particular
problem or question using methodical procedure.

40
Moisture Content Test. The determination of moisture content
was made according to ISO 3130 standard. The researchers weighed the
30cm part that was taken from different location in sample bamboo culm.
After weighing, the samples were oven dry for 30 minutes at a temperature of
110 degree Celsius. The oven dry sample will be cooled and will be weighing
again. The obtained data will be applied to the equation for determination of
moisture content.
The arithmetic mean associated with standard deviation of the results
obtained from the individual test piece is to be reported as the mean value for
the moisture content of the test specimens.
Dry Density. The determination of dry density was made
according to ISO 3131 standard. The researchers determined the oven dried
mass of 30 cm length test specimen by weighing and of its volume by
measuring its dimensions. Oven dry mass was used; this was determined by
drying the test specimen using oven for 30 minutes at a temperature of 110
degree Celsius. Calculation for dry density was determined by applying the
equation for dry density. Based on equation for dry density, the average dry
density is calculated.
Test Setup. In order to conduct the test for tensile and physical
properties of bamboo specimen under different condition, the prefabricated
set of specimen taken from the desired part of the culm were used. The
41
researcher took each sample and kept for sun drying until the specimen loss
20-25% moisture content.
Shrinkage Deformation and Absorption. From the original
dimension of 1 m x 30mm x 10mm, using caliper as measuring tool, the
researcher took the initial shrinkage at the three points which included the two
sides of the ends and the midpoint of each specimen before immersing from
different set-up.
After drying and shrinkage deformation determination, the bamboo
specimen was immersed for 1 day, 7 days and 14 days (see Plate 3.7). First
nine specimens immersed singly in the fresh water within 3m depth at the
Bicol River along Sto Domingo,Nabua Area. Another nine pieces of specimen
cured under sea water along Pararao Seashore, Balatan, Camarines Sur
within 3m depth, from the water level. At the end of each immersing period,
the researchers removed the immersed specimen and immediately placed for
sun drying until 85-90% of its moisture content was depleted. The absorption
and swelling of bamboo test specimen immersed in fresh water and salt water
were calculated using equation for absorption and swelling deformation.
The calculated test results were obtained as presented in Table 3.2.
The dried specimens with 10-15% remaining moisture content were
measured for its final shrinkage before subjected for tensile strength test.
42
Plate 3.7
Soaking Bamboo Specimen
Test Strength test. Tensile test of dried specimens (see Table 3.2)
were conducted in the Universal testing machine (UTM) with model no. 2589.
The tensile strength test was performed at the Department of Public
Works and Highway (DPWH), Region V. According to ISO 22127-1 the load
should be applied continuously throughout the test (see Plate 3.8). The set of
tensile test was conducted on bamboo sample conform to the specification
formulated by the researchers which posses 10-15% remaining moisture
content.
Bamboo specimens were carefully placed under test machine and
tensile load was applied until rupture. For conveying testing data, an
electronic device with a model of YZ805T was used to read the data as
43
Cross-
Specimen Remain Mc Specimen Size (mm)
Sectional
Code (%)
L W T Area (sq. mm)
N-A-1 10.97 1000 33.10 9.50 314.45
WATERSOAKED IN SALT WATERSOAKED IN FRESH NATURAL AIR- DRIED
N-A-2 12.36 1000 32.50 10.30 334.75

N-A-3 15.45 1000 31.60 10.50 331.80
N-B-1 9.22 1000 30.20 11.10 335.22
N-B-2 12.7 1000 33.50 11.40 381.90
N-B-3 10.01 1000 30.00 11.10 333.00
N-C-1 9.47 1000 30.85 9.70 299.25
N-C-2 13.13 1000 32.70 12.40 405.48
N-C-3 10.62 1000 32.40 10.50 340.20
F-1-A 9.98 1000 33.90 13.30 450.87
F-1-B 11.79 1000 32.20 13.15 423.43
F-1-C 10.08 1000 30.80 12.25 377.30
F-7-A 13.39 1000 30.20 9.60 289.92
F-7-B 15.01 1000 32.80 11.75 385.40
F-7-C 10.25 1000 35.00 11.30 395.50
F-14-A 13.80 1000 31.80 12.80 407.04
F-14-B 15.31 1000 32.30 12.50 403.75
11.01 32.90 14.10 463.89
F-14-C 1000
S-1-A 10.69 1000 32.10 13.00 417.30
S-1-B 10.52 1000 34.90 12.70 443.23
S-1-C 12.64 1000 27.20 10.50 285.60
S-7-A 12.15 1000 28.90 12.50 361.25
S-7-B 11.01 1000 31.30 12.90 403.77
S-7-C 14.11 1000 28.90 11.90 343.91
S-14-A 10.16 1000 33.70 13.10 441.47
S-14-B 14.76 1000 32.90 12.20 401.38
Table 3.2
S-14-C 15.01 1000 29.20 11.80 344.56
Tensile Test Specimen
shown in the preceding chapters. All value was calibrated to zero prior to
testing.
44
Researchers measured the elongation of applied tensile load. The
determination of tensile strength was based on the calculation from the
formula in accord to ISO 3345.
Plate 3.8
Tensile Test Setup
pH Determination. The researchers took 1L sample of salt water from
Pararao Seashore, Balatan, Camarines Sur and 1L sample of fresh water
from Bicol river along Sto. Domingo, Nabua, Camarines Sur for the
determination of expected Ph level result for both saltwater and fresh water.
45
After obtaining the sample, the researchers brought immediately the
water sample to the laboratory of Department of Science and Technology
(DOST), regional office located at Legaspi City for testing.
Plate 3.9
pH Value Test Setup
Statistical Analysis
In the determination for the acceptability or rejection of hypothesis, the
researchers went through the appropriate test statistics and set of statistical
formula developed by Sir Ronald A. Fischer known as ANOVA (analysis of
variance). The researchers used the ANOVA to compare the mean of three
independent groups. The researchers were interested to know if there are
significant differences between and among the variables being analyzed.
The following sets of formulas were used to answer the problems
presented:
46
SS t = X 2 ( X )2
-
N
Where:
SS t = Total sum of squares
X = individual value in each column
N = total sample size

2
( X c)
SS w = X 2 -
n
Where:
SS w = Total sum of squares within column
Xc = sum of individual value per column
n = size of the sample per column
( X tc )2 ( X )2
SS c = -
nT N
Where:
SS c = Total sum of squares between columns
X tc = Total sum of individual value per column
nT = Total size of the sample per row
( X tr )2 ( X )2
SS r = -
nT N
Where:
47
SS r = Total sum of squares between rows
X tr = Total sum of individual value per row
nT = Total size of the sample per row
SS c .r = SS t - SS w - SS c - SS r
Where:
SS c .r = Total sum of squares between columns and rows
This study also employed the arithmetic mean to statistically determine
the central tendency of the bamboo without any treatment and treated in salt
water and fresh water as to its tensile strength.
Formula:
X =
x
N
Where:
X = Arithmetic mean
x = Sum of all Tensile Strength
N = Total no of Test Specimen
T-test was used to determine the significance difference among the
bamboo soaked on salt water soaked fresh water and natural air-dried.
Formula:
48
2
s2

1 1
n1 +n22 [ + ]
n1 n 2
s1 2 + ( n2 1 )
( n11 )

X X 2
t= 1

Where:
X 1 = mean of the first sample
X 2 = mean of the second sample
s 1 = Standard deviation of the first sample
s 2 = Standard deviation of the second sample
n1 = number of items in the first sample
n2 = number of items in the second sample
2
X X

S n=
Where:
S n = Standard deviation of the sample
X = individual value of the sample
X = Arithmetic mean
49
N = total number of cases
Endnotes
1. International Standard (ISO 22157-1), 2004, www.iso.org,

accessed November 22, 2011
2. Bamboo Reinforced Concrete Construction , Francis E. Brink

and Paul J. Rush. www.romanconcrete.com, accessed November 22, 2011
3. Markos Alito, 2005. Bamboo Reinforcement as Structural

Material for the Construction of Low-Cost Housing in Ethiopia. (Master
Thesis, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia).
50
Chapter 4
TENSILE STRENGTH OF CONVENTIONAL-TREATED BAMBUSA
BLUMEANA BAMBOO
This chapter presents the results of the physical properties and tensile
tests performed with bambusa blumeana bamboo splits specimen for different
conditions. The purpose of tensile test was used to investigate the tensile
capacity of selected bamboo type compare when it is immersed under the salt
water and fresh water condition for treatment.
Physical Properties of Bambusa Blumeana
There are various physical properties of bambusa blumeana bamboo
namely: moisture content, dry density, shrinkage and swelling deformation
and absorption. The moisture content of bamboo varies vertically from the
bottom to the top portion.

51
Moisure Content: Table 4.1 shows the result gathered from the
investigation of general moisture content of bamboo materials. The first trial
mark as specimen A indicated a mass of moisture expressed as 116.67% of
an oven-dry mass. The second trial mark as specimen B has a moisture
content of 100% and the third trial Table 4.1specimen C has 78.57% thus; the
mark as
Moisture
arithmetic mean Content
of moisture of Bambusa
content Blumeana
of the result Bamboo
obtained from the three trial
is reported as 98.41% of the dry weight and represented as the actual
moisture content of 6 meters bamboo culm materials. Accordingly, the
obtained moisture content varies within the accepted ranges of 57%-150%
from the top to the bottom.
Specimen
Position Original Oven-dried Moisture
TRIALS
along the Weight (g) Weight (g) Content (%)
culm
A Bottom 130 g 60 g 116.67%
B Middle 120 g 60 g 100%
C Top 125 g 70 g 78.57%
AVERAGE 98.41%
Dry Density. Due to the close relationship of dry density and
mechanical properties, the investigation on bambusa blumeana bamboo is
very important. In the research work, bamboo specimen mark as A had a
calculated dry density of 567. 215 kg/cu. m, specimen B has 627.392 kg/cu.
m dry density while specimen C has a calculated of 633.576 kg/cu. m dry

52
density. Average dry density of solid bamboo was 609.394 kg/cu. m (see
Table 4.2). Accordingly, the obtained dry density varies within the accepted
ranges of 500 to 800 kg/cu. m depending on the anatomical structure, such
as the quality and distribution of fibers around the vascular bundles.
Specimen
Position DISPLACEMENT (mm) DRY DENSITY
TRIALS
along the (kg/ cu.m)
L W T
culm
A Bottom 300 34.4 10.25 567.215
B Middle 300 32.2 9.9 627.392
C Top 300 34.1 10.8 633.576
609.394
AVERAGE
Table 4.3-4 shows the result obtained
Table 4.2 from the individual test specimen
and reported Dry

as Density
the arithmetic meanBlumeana
of Bambusa of moisture content, dry density,
Bamboo
shrinkage, swelling deformation and absorption. Commonly, it is desirable
that the twenty seven specimens as were seen in the work expressed to have
10-15% of remained moisture content to keep the test result consistent.
Shrinkage and Swelling Deformation. As mentioned in the latter
section, bamboo begins to change its dimension as soon as it starts to lose
moisture. Dimensional stability as soon bamboo loose or gain water is very
crucial, this resulted in the setting up of internal stresses between fibers.
These stresses exceed the cohesion of the fibers leading to warping (Alito,
2005). Figure 4.1 exemplify the induction of water molecules into the cell wall
53
6
Table 4.3 3.5
5.47 3.25
5 3
Swelling Deformation for Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo 2.52
2.55
Tangental Swelling %
2.5 2.45
Radial Swelling %
4
3.81 3.91 1.99
2 2.07
3
2.862.32
2.51 1.5
2
1
1 0.5
Immersed in Fresh water Immersed in Fresh water
0 0 Immersed in Salt water 0 0 Immersed in Salt water
0 5 10 15 20 25 0 5 10 15 20 25
Moisture Content (%) Moisture Content (%)
Specimen Dimension Swelling

Mc (%)
code Length Width Thickness Tangental Radial
N1 1m 30.75 11.60 0.00 0.00 22.34
N2 1m 31.50 10.25 0.00 0.00 22.49
N3 1m 33.75 10.00 0.00 0.00 19.85
N4 1m 33.30 11.00 0.00 0.00 20.00
N5 1m 30.70 10.50 0.00 0.00 22.02
N6 1m 32.90 11.20 0.00 0.00 22.16
N7 1m 34.20 12.10 0.00 0.00 19.74
N8 1m 33.80 12.85 0.00 0.00 20.98
N9 1m 33.00 10.75 0.00 0.00 22.44
F1 1m 31.97 13.02 1.99 2.32 20.18
F7 1m 32.50 10.88 2.07 2.51 21.22
F14 1m 31.88 12.93 3.25 3.91 21.77
S1 1m 31.07 12.10 2.45 2.86 19.74
S7 1m 29.33 12.38 2.52 3.81 20.94
S14 1m 31.58 12.23 2.55 5.47 21.47
54
Figure 4.1
Tangential and Radial Swelling of Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo
result in radial and tangential swelling, the test value that were obtained by
use of formula for swelling deformation shows that the bamboo as it
immersed in fresh water for 1, 7 and 14 days had a tangential swelling of
1.99%, 2.07% and 3.25% respectively, while it shows to have a radial swelling
for 1, 7 and 14 days of 2.32%, 2.52% and 3.91% respectively.
In terms of radial and tangential swelling under saltwater condition,
result obtain, present a value of 2.45%, 2.52% and 2.55% of radial swelling
for duration of 1, 7 and 14 days respectively.
Tangential swelling of specimen under this condition shows to have
2.86%, 3.81% and 5.47% respectively.
The radial and tangential shrinkage occurs in proportion to the amount
of water loss from the cell wall. It was observed that the arithmetic mean of
radial shrinkage and tangential shrinkage of bamboo specimen before
immersing is 2.92% and 1.77% respectively.

55
While for shrinkage deformation before applying load for tensile test,
the arithmetic mean of radial and tangential shrinkage for all specimens is
ranging from 1.31-7.24% and 0.7-4.53% respectively (see Figure 4.2).
Absorption. Table 4.5 shows the test results obtain from the individual
test piece under different condition. From the specimen immersed under fresh
water for 1 day, the calculated arithmetic mean of three trials was based on
the equation reported as 85.04 %, while for 7 days, the arithmetic mean of
Table 4.4
Shrinkage Deformation for Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo

Dimension (mm) Shrinkage (%)
Specimen code RMc (%)
Length Width Thickness Tangental Radial
N1 1m 30.20 11.10 1.95 5.93 10.97
N2 1m 30.85 9.70 3.59 5.83 12.36
N3 1m 32.40 9.50 2.07 7.32 15.45
N4 1m 32.70 10.50 4.14 6.67 9.22
N5 1m 30.00 10.50 5.21 5.53 12.7
N6 1m 31.60 11.10 4.24 7.08 10.01
N7 1m 33.10 11.85 3.74 7.32 9.47
N8 1m 33.50 12.40 4.66 6.77 13.13
N9 1m 32.67 10.62 2.99 7.62 10.62
F1 1m 31.40 12.88 0.72 1.31 10.62
F7 1m 31.93 10.69 1.04 2.62 12.88
F14 1m 31.56 12.64 1.06 4.36 13.37
S1 1m 29.75 11.79 0.7 2.78 11.29
S7 1m 29.15 12.15 1.1 3.25 12.42
S14 1m 31.48 12.03 1.27 3.78 13.31
56
8
Immersed in Fresh water
Immersed in Salt water
7 Natural Air-dry6.67
5
Radial Shrinkage (%)
4.36
4
3.78
3
3.25
2.78 2.62
2
1.31
1
0 0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
Remaining Moisture Content (%)
4
Immersed in Fresh water 3.62
Immersed in Salt water
3.5
Natural Air-dry
3
Tangental Shrinkage (%)
2.5
1.5 1.27
1.1 1.06
1 0.72
1.04
0.5 0.7
0 0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
57
Figure 4.2
Tangential and Radial Shrinkage

three trials of Bambusa
is reported as 85.53Blumeana
% and forBamboo
14 days, the reported arithmetic
mean of three trials calculated as 87.8 %.
Table 4.5
Absorption of Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo

Dimension (mm) Absorpton
Specimen code Mc (%)
Length Width Thickness (%)
F1 1m 31.97 13.02 20.18
85.04
F7 1m 32.50 10.88 85.53 21.22
F14 1m 31.88 12.93 87.8 21.77
S1 1m 31.07 12.10 83.9 19.74
S7 1m 29.33 12.38 86 20.94
S14 1m 31.58 12.23 87.13 21.47
AVERAGE 85.90 20.89
100
90
8687.8
87.13
85.04
80
83.985.53
70
Absorpton (%)
60
50
40
30
20
10
Absoption
0 0
0 5 10 15 20 25
Moisture Content (%)

58
Figure 4.3
Absorption of Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo
Specimens immersed under saltwater, reported the following
absorption for 1 day immersing period, the arithmetic mean of absorption for
specimen was reported as 83.9 %, then for 7 days immersing period, the
three specimens associated the arithmetic mean of absorption as 86 %, while
specimen immersed under saltwater condition recorded to have an arithmetic
mean of absorption as 87.13%.
Tensile Strength of Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo
Test done in this study was in dry condition specimen parallel to the
grain and prepared using bamboo culms taken from Santiago old plantation
and the tensile test carried out with UTM machine with model no. 2589 and
2
has a constant rate of 1N per mm . Tensile tests were conducted on
specimens with nodes and where processed through an extensive,
systematic testing method. The test considers factors such as moisture
content, density, shrinkage and swelling. These tests were performed on

59
twenty seven specimens with known dimension and its main purpose was to
determine the tensile strength of the specified species bamboo (which is
Bambusa Blumeana bamboo).
The general tensile test results were summarized in the Table 4.6 and
4.7 shown below.
For this, the tensile strength of the specified species of bamboo was
analyzed. Tensile test were conducted on the set of specimen immersed
under fresh water and saltwater for 1, 7 and 14 days, also for the set of
specimen under the condition of natural air dried. Each test piece was
conducted using three replications.
All the set of specimen under different condition has moisture content
ranging from 10-15% before tensile test applied. In the experimental test
failure in most of the specimens occurred at the node. A few number of test
specimens failed by splitting into two parts and the followed by node failure as
shown in the Table 4.6.
A D
C E
60
A- Fibers of Natural Air-dry Bamboo D- Splitting Failure

B- Fibers of Bamboo Immersed in Fresh Water E- Node Failure
C- Fibers of Bamboo Immersed in Salt Water

Plate 4.1
Specimen No. of Fibers Type of
Failure of Tensile Test
Code Nodes Elongation (mm) Failure
N-1 3 129.8 Node Failure
NATURAL AIR- DRIED
N-2 3 109 Node Failure and Splitting

N-4 2 30 Node Failure
N-8 3 11.5 Node Failure
F-1-A 3 40 Node Failure
F-1-B 2 67
SOAKED IN FRESH
Node Failure
F-1-C 3 69 Node Failure
WATER
F-7-B 2 24.5 Node Failure

F-7-C 2 35 Node Failure and Splitting
F-14-B 3 33 Node Failure
F-14-C 3 14.5 Node Failure and Splitting
S
S-1-A 3 79.7 Node Failure

61
S-1-B 3 105 Node Failure and Splitting

WATEROAKED IN SALT
S-1-C 2 160 Node Failure

S-7-A 3 53.7 Node Failure
S-7-C 2 49.7 Node Failure and Splitting
S-14-A 3 7 Node Failure
S-14-C 2 8.2 Node Failure
Table 4.6
Tensile Test Failure

Examination of bamboo structure shows that the fibers for natural air-
dry specimen were much denser and those of immersed bamboo specimens
Also, the fibers which are straight elsewhere become chaotic in the
specimen as the immersed period goes longer.
It seems that constitute relationship of the bamboo fibers (atomic
structures) differ from immersed sample shows a brittle behavior while
natural-air dry bamboo exhibit a more ductile behavior.
However, Figure 4.4 displays the ultimate tensile strength of natural air
dries bamboo. This graph shows that strength of bamboo samples were
anticipated to increase exponentially as the moisture content reduces.
Table 4.7
Tensile Strength for Natural Air-dried Bamboo
Specimen Tensile
Cross-sectional Area Failure Load
R-Mc (%) Strength
Code (sq.mm) (kN)
(MPa)
N-1 10.97 314.45 43.9 139.61
N-2 12.36 334.75 44.6 133.23
62
N-3 15.45 331.8 40.8 122.97

N-4 9.22 335.22 48.2 143.79
N-5 12.7 381.9 49.6 129.88
N-6 10.01 333 46.9 140.84
N-7 9.47 299.25 42.2 141.02
N-8 13.13 405.48 50.3 124.05
N-9 10.62 340.2 47.9 140.8
AVERAGE 135.13
From Table 4.7, it was highly observed that all specimens were not of
same area since bamboo is a natural material. The tests were conducted as
per the outline procedure, and showed that the calculated arithmetic mean
value of the tensile strength of a specimen parallel to the grain for natural air-
dried condition is determined to be 135.13Mpa.

63
150
145
143.79
140.84140.8
141.02 139.61
140
Ultmate Tensile Strength (MPa)
135
133.23
129.88
130
125 122.97
124.05
120
115
Natural Air-dry
110
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

64
Figure 4.4
Natural Air-dry Bamboo Ultimate Tensile Strength Curve
On the other hand from Figure 4.5, the tensile strength of the specimen
under fresh water condition immersed for 1, 7 and 14 days have the following
data to be 120.44 MPa, 117.61 MPa and 102.8 MPa respectively, while
Table 4.8
Tensile Strength for Immersed Bamboo

Specimen Cross-Sectonal Area Failure Tensile
R-Mc (%)
Code ( sq. mm) Load (kN) Strength
F-1 10.62 417.2 50.07 120.44
F-7 12.88 356.94 41.57 117.61
F-14 13.37 424.89 43.8 102.8
S-1 11.29 382.04 54.77 144.77
S-7 12.42 369.64 51.7 139.26
S-14 13.31 395.8 49.3 124.2
65
160
144.77 139.26
140
124.2
120 120.44
Ultmate Tensile Strength (MPa)
117.61
100
102.8
80
60
40
20
IMMERSED IN FRESH WATER
IMMERSED IN SALT WATER
0
10 20
133.15 MPa
13
66
Figure 4.5
tensile strength of specimen
Comparisons immersed
of Tensile under
Strength forsaltwater condition
Salt water Immersedfor 1,and
7 and
Fresh water Immersed Bamboo Samples
14 days determined to have a strength value of 144.77 MPa, 139.26 MPa and
124.2 MPa respectively.
Generally, it was observed that the tensile strength of materials
exhibited higher for immersed bamboo under saltwater with pH value of 8.13
compare to the cases under fresh water condition. Thus, it seems that the
bambusa blumeana reaches the greatest strength when immersed in salt
water for 24 hrs. This indicated that the decrease in tensile strength is
considerable as the time under saltwater goes longer and as it immersed
under fresh water condition. Considering only the result obtained from the
tensile strength of aforementioned materials in natural air-dry, immersed in
fresh water and immersed in salt water condition, an average tensile strength
with standard deviation was obtained and shows to be 135.1315 MPa and
7.88, 113.62 MPa and 13.18, 136.07MPa and 13.30 respectively (see Table
4.8).
Possibly this behavior could be related to the variation of cellulose and
starch content at bambusa blumeana bamboo to possible changes or
modifications in atomic structure of microscopic fibers.

67
Anatomical structures such as fiber length, on the other hand
influences the tensile strength of materials which are often associated with its
workability and durability (see Plate 4.1).

Table 4.9
Physical Properties and Tensile Strength of Bamboo Specimen
Standard
Geometric Properties Arithmetic Mean
Deviation
Ultimate Tensile Strength of Natural 135.13 MPa 7.88

Air-dry Bamboo
Ultimate Tensile Strength of Fresh 113.62 Mpa 13.18

water Immersed Bamboo
Ultimate Tensile Strength of Salt 136.07 MPa 13.30

water Immersed Bamboo
Radial Swelling 3.48 mm 1.48
Tangential Swelling 2.47 mm 0.66
Absorption 85.90% 1.96
Radial Shrinkage 4.23 mm 2.35
Tangential Shrinkage 1.86 mm 1.50
pH value
The result of the water chemistry testing is listed in Table 4.10. For pH
68
value obtain using the laboratory of DOST Regional Office and SMEWW
4500B method, the results indicated that salt water taken from Brg. Pararao,
Balatan, Camarines Sur has a pH value equal to 8.13, while for the fresh
water sample taken from Bicol river, the sample illustrated to have a pH value
of 7.46.
Table 4.10
Result for pH value Determination

Item Result Method
Sample Sample Description Parameters
No. s Used
Clear liquid with

Saltwater
1 sediments in PET pH at 18C 8.13
(SW) SMEW
bottle
W
Yellowish liquid with 4500B
Freshwate
2 sediments in PET pH at 20 C 7.46
r (FW)
bottle
Statistical Analysis of Data
ANOVA compares means from three independent groups. The analysis
considered the tensile strength of bambusa blumeana bamboo species from
different condition, or data resources.
The results for the ANOVA test for equal means as discussed below and
summarized in Table 4.11. For the tensile strength, the results indicated that
the Fstat is greater than Fcrit.., thus the finding is significant and the null
hypothesis is rejected.
69
With the computed F-value of 12.75 compared to the F-tabular value of
3.40 at 0.05 level of significance with 2 and 24 degrees of freedom, the null
hypothesis is rejected in favor of the research hypothesis which means that
there is a significant difference in the tensile strength of bambusa blumeana
bamboo under 3 different conditions.
Table 4.11
Summary Table for the One-Way Analysis of Variance
Sources of Sum of Degrees of Mean Computed

Variaton Squares Freedom Square F
4,287.23
MS B=
Between Column 4,287.23 3-1=2 2
2,143.615
2,143.615 F=
168.178
4,036.26
MS W = 12.75
Within Column 4,036.26 3(9-1)=24 24
168.178
TOTAL 8,323.49 27-1=26
Further generalization, since the F-test used could only say that difference
exists among the mean, it cannot pinpoint which pair really gives significant
difference exist among means of three groups. The comparison among the
means of bamboo specimen for three different conditions could be done
through the use of the test for two sample means.

70
Considering comparison between the means of natural air-dries and
bamboo immersed in fresh water condition; means of bamboo immersed in
fresh water and immersed in salt water; also bamboo in natural air-dry and
immersed under salt water,by applying the t-test formula the mean and
variance of each sample are shown.
Table 4.12 illustrates the summary report for the t-test of three pairs,
among the three pairs tested, pairs of bamboo between natural air-dry and
immersed in fresh water; also between immersed in fresh water and
immersed under salt water shows a significant difference in meand, since the
coputed t value of -3.88 and 40.43 is greater than tabulat t value of 2.12 at the
0.05 level of significance. Pair of bamboo immersed in salt water and natural
air-dry which did not show a significant difference in means. Hence, the
Table 4.12
Summary Table for the t-test
t-value and Statistical significance

Source of Variation
t-computed t-critical value Interpretation
Natural air-dry and No Significant
0.18
Immersed in Salt water difference
Immersed in Fresh
Significant
water and Immersed in -3.88 2.12
difference
Salt water
71
Natural air-dry and

Significant
Immersed in Fresh 40.43
difference
water
average tensile strength result among samples under condition of Natural air-
dry bamboo is not significantly different from the average tensile strength
possesses among bamboo samples immersed under salt water conditions.
This is true only at the 0.05 level of significance with 16 as the degree of
freedom.
72
Chapter 5
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter gives the summary, conclusions and recommendations
of the study. It is divided into three parts, the first part gives the summary of
the findings, the second part gives the conclusions of the study and the third
part gives the recommendations for possible application of conventional-
treated bamboo in construction industry.
Summary
This study evaluated the tensile strength of bambusa blumeana
bamboo when subjected for conventional method of treatment immersed in
salt water and fresh water. Specifically, this study sought to answer the
following objectives:
1. To determine the physical properties of Bambusa blumeana
bamboo in terms of moisture content, dry density, shrinkage and swelling
deformation and absorption for the following conditions:

73
6. To ascertain the tensile strength of Bambusa blumeana bamboo
for the following condition:
7. To verify the pH value of saltwater and fresh water.
8. To find out the significant difference in tensile strength among
the air-dried bamboo, immersed in salt water and immersed in fresh water
for different curing period.
9. To formulate recommendations for the possible design
application of conventional-treated bamboo in construction industry.
To achieve this objective a series of tensile test were conducted on
immersed bambusa blumeana bamboo in accordance to the test procedures
and guideline under International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The
test results were compared with tensile strength of natural air-dry specimen.
Findings
From the experiments and tests conducted, the following results
were noted:
1. Physical Properties of Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo

74
Generally, the moisture content of Bambusa blumeana bamboo is
98.41% and has a dry density of 609.394 kg/cu. m. The radial shrinkage is
4.23 mm and the tangential shrinkages 1.86 mm. The radial swelling is 3.48
mm and the tangential swelling is 2.47 mm. And the absorption is 85.90%.
2. Tensile Strength of Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo
The ultimate strength of Bambusa blumeana bamboo in natural air-dry
condition is 135.13 MPa, for the immersed in fresh water condition is 113.62
MPa and for the immersed in salt water condition is 136.07 MPa. The fracture
points of the all tensile samples containing nodes occurred at nodes.

3. pH value for fresh water is 7.46 while 8.13 for the salt water.
4. There is a significant difference in the tensile strength of
Bambusa blumeana bamboo under three different conditions at 0.05 level of
significance.
Conclusion
Based on the experimental study for physical and tensile strength of
conventional-treated bambusa blumeana bamboo, the following conclusions
were being drawn:
1. Physical Properties of Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo.
The moisture content of the bamboo varies from bottom to the top
portion of culm. The shrinkage of thickness called radial shrinkage is higher

75
than that of the tangential shrinkage. Dry density and absorption varies
depending on the moisture content and geometric dimension of the specimen.
2. Tensile Strength of Bambusa Blumeana Bamboo.
The ultimate strength of bamboo increases from 15 to 10% remaining
moisture content. Immersed bamboo in salt water condition within 24hrs and
7 days has slightly better tensile strength that those bamboos immersed in
fresh water and naturally air-dried. The node of bamboo is weak in tension.
3. Ph value for salt water and fresh water conform to the accepted
level of alkalinity and acidity for both salt water and fresh water.
4. It is implies that immersed bamboo in salt water condition is
better than natural air-dry and immersed in fresh water. The presence of salt
water particles during immersion process affects the strength properties of the
bamboo.
Recommendation
Based on derived physical properties and tensile strength of bambusa
blumeana bamboo, the following form is part of recommendations;
1. The strength of bambusa blumeana bamboo immersed in salt water
has a potential to be used as reinforcement either for horizontal or for vertical,
masonry or low rise building prior to applicable spacing, but take into account
by the designers.
76
2. Further test and analysis must be undertaken in determination the
effect of salt water on the other mechanical properties and anatomical
characteristics of specie bambusa blumeana bamboo and also for other
indigenous bamboo species.
3. Additional micrographics studies must be carried out to look into the
possible reasons for the variability in the anatomical characteristic of
immersed bamboo fibers.

77
BIBLIOGRAPHY
78
A. Books
De Flander, Katleen. The role of Bamboo in Global Modernity: from

Traditional to Innovative Construction Material,pp 2
Xiao et. al., 2008, Modern Bamboo Structures, (published by CRC

Press/Balkema, The Netherlands), pp 3
B. Unpublished Materials
Alito, Markos. 2005. Bamboo Reinforcement as Structural Material for the

Construction of Low-Cost Housing in Ethiopia. (Master Thesis,
Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia).
de Vos, Valentin. 2010. Bamboo for Exterior Joinery. (Thesis, Larenstein

University, Netherlands),
Janssen, Julius Joseph Antonius. 1985. Bamboo in Building Structures.

(Master Thesis, Eindhoven University of Technology, Netherlands).
Jung, Youngsi. 2006. Investigation of Bamboo as Reinforcement in

Concrete. (Master Thesis, University of Texas, Arlington).
Kassa, Bewketu Z. 2009. Bamboo: An Alternative Building Material for

Urban Ethiopia. (Master Thesis, California State University, San Luis
Obispo)
Mitch, Derek Randal. 2010. Structural Behavior of Grouted-Bar Bamboo Colum

Bases. (Master Thesis, University of Pittsburgh).
Zakaria, Mohd Nazarudin Bin. 2005, Fracture Characteristics of Betong

Bamboo Culm Loaded in Compression, Bending and Shear.
( Master Thesis, Universiti Teknologi Mara),
79
C. Internet
Brink, Francis E. and Rush, Paul J. Bamboo Reinforced Concrete

Construction , www.romanconcrete.com, accessed November 22,
2011
Bamboo Reinforced Concrete Construction. U.S. Naval Civil

Engineering Laboratory (2000) Available:
http://www.romanconcrete.com/docs/bamboo1966/BambooReinforced
Concrete, pp. 1-19, accessed November 20, 2011.
Inbar, www.inbar.int, retrieved November 14, 2011
International Standard (ISO 22157-1), 2004, www.Iso.org, accessed

November 22, 2011
Rivera, Merlyn N. Philippine National Report on Bamboo and Rattan,

available:www.inbar.int/documents/country%20report/Philippine.htm,
accessed November 12, 2011.
Wahab et al., Bending and Compressive strength of Preservatives

Treated Bamboo Gigantochloa Scortechinii Gamble, available:
http://wwwsst.ums.edu.my/data/file/C1TKbInKgj4T.pdf, accessed
December 14, 2011
Yu et al., Selected Physical and Mechanical Properties of Moso Bamboo

(Phyllostachys pubescens), available:
http://www.frim.gov.my/v1/jtfsonline/jtfs/v20n4/258-263.pdf, accessed
December 14, 2011.
80
APPENDICES
81
APPENDIX A
PERMIT TO CONDUCT RESEARCH
COLLEGE LIBRARIAN
Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges
Dear Madam:
Greetings!
The undersigned fourth year Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Students of Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges are presently working on
their thesis entitled TENSILE STRENGTH OF CONVENTIONAL
TREATED BAMBUSA BLUMEANA BAMBOO in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.
In this regard, may they be allowed to do some research in your

prestigious library. This opportunity will help them greatly in realizing their
research undertaking.
May this request merit your favorable consideration and approval.
Thank you and more power.
Very respectfully yours,
(SGD)TORALDE JASON A.
(SGD)MATRICIO ALEX C.
(SGD)LOMPERO DREXEN PAUL B.
Noted:
(SGD)ENGR. HENRY P. TURALDE

Adviser
(SGD) DR. LOYD H. BOTOR

Instructor, Engineering Research
82
APPENDIX B
LETTER TO THE ADVISER
TO : ENGR. HENRY P. TURALDE

FROM : Civil Engineering Research Students
DATE : December 12, 2011
SUBJECT : Research Technical Adviser
I. Greetings!
II. The undersigned fourth year Civil Engineering students are in the
process of conducting research entitled TENSILE STRENGTH OF
CONVENTIONAL-TREATED BAMBUSA BLUMEANA BAMBOO, in
partial fulfillment of the requirements in ER421, Engineering
Research/Project Study.
III. In view thereof, the group has unanimously chosen you to be our
Technical Adviser. We believe that your immeasurable knowledge
and field and expertise will help us realize and fulfill the success of our
study.
IV. Your acceptance shall be greatly acknowledged.
V. Thank you very much.
Noted:
(SGD)DR. LOYD H. BOTOR

83
APPENDIX C
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
TO : MRS. ALICE S. ALMAZAN

DATE : January 5, 2012
SUBJECT : Editor
I. Greetings!
II. The undersigned fourth year Civil Engineering Students are in the
CONVENTIONALTREATED BAMBUSA BLUMEANA BAMBOO
in partial fulfillment of the requirements in ER421, Engineering
III. In view thereof, the group has unanimously chosen you to be their
Thesis Editor. With your immeasurable knowledge and expertise
in the field, this study will be a success.
Noted:

Adviser

84
APPENDIX D
LETTER TO THE CONSULTANT
TO : ENGR. NILO R. SALAZAR

DATE : January 5, 2012
SUBJECT : Consultant
I. Greetings!
II. The undersigned fourth year Civil Engineering Students are in the
CONVENTIONALTREATED BAMBUSA BLUMEANA BAMBOO
in partial fulfillment of the requirements in ER421, Engineering
III. In view thereof, the group has unanimously chosen you to be their
Consultant. With your immeasurable knowledge and expertise in
the field, this study will be a success.
Noted:

Adviser

85
APPENDIX E
LETTER TO BORROW LABORATORY MATERIAL
January 08, 2012

MRS. IRENE VILLARAZA
Instructor-In-Charge
Testing Materials
This College
Dear Madam:
Greetings!
The undersigned, are fourth year Bachelor of Science in Civil

Engineering Students of Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges are presently
working on our thesis entitled, TENSILE STRENGTH OF CONVENTIONAL-
TREATED BAMBUSA BLUMEANA BAMBOO, as a requirement for the
degree of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.
In view of this, we would like to ask permission from you to let us use
the following testing materials in the fabrication of the material:
Weighing scale
Oven
We are looking forward for your favorable consideration and approval.
Thank you and more power.
Respectfully yours,
Noted:
(SGD) ENGR. HENRY P. TURALDE (SGD) DR. LOYD BOTOR
Adviser Instructor, Engineering Research
86
APPENDIX F
PERMIT TO CONDUCT LABORATORY TEST
March 2, 2012
DIRECTOR DANILO E. DEQUITO, CESO IV

Regional Director
DPWH, Region V
Rawis, Legaspi City
Attention: ENGR. FERMIN I. PETEZA

Chief, MQCHD
Dear Sir/Madam,
Greetings!
We undersigned fourth year Civil Engineering Students are presently working

on our thesis entitled TENSILE STRENGTH OF CONVENTIONAL
TREATED BAMBUSA BLUMEANA BAMBOO as a requirement for the
In view thereof, we seek permission from tour good office to allow us conduct
the determination of physical properties and tensile strength in your
laboratory, as primary basis of our study.
We are hoping for your consideration and approval.
Thank you very much and God Bless.
Noted:
(SGD)ENGR. HENRY P. TURALDE (SGD) DR. LOYD H. BOTOR
Adviser Instructor, Engineering Research
87
APPENDIX G
PERMIT TO CONDUCT LABORATORY TEST
January 26, 2012
TOMAS B. BRIAS
Director IV
DOST, Region V
Rawis, Legaspi City
Dear Sir/Madam,
Greetings!
We undersigned fourth year Civil Engineering Students are presently working

on our thesis entitled TENSILE STRENGTH OF CONVENTIONAL
TREATED BAMBUSA BLUMEANA BAMBOO as a requirement for the
In view thereof, we seek permission from tour good office to allow us conduct
the determination of the exact pH value of saltwater and fresh water in your
laboratory, as primary basis of our study.
We are hoping for your consideration and approval.
Thank you very much and God Bless.
Noted:
Adviser
(SGD) DR. LOYD H. BOTOR

88
APPENDIX H
DETERMINATION FOR BAMBOO PHYSICAL PROPERTY AND TENSILE
STRENGTH
A.) MOISTURE CONTENT DETERMINATION
Purpose:
This laboratory test is performed to determine the moisture of a Bambusa

Blumeana bamboo for physical and mechanical tests. This laboratory will employ the
determination, by weighing, of the loss in mass of the test piece on drying to constant
mass.
Standard Reference:
ISO 3130, Wood Determination of moisture content for physical and

mechanical tests
Equipment:
Electronic weighing scale, with an accuracy of 0.01 g. Oven, Caliper.
Test Procedure:
Test pieces for determination of moisture content shall be prepared

immediately after felling the culm and before each tensile test. The number of test
pieces shall be equal to the number of test pieces for the physical or mechanical test.
The form shall be like a rectangular prism, approximately 30 mm wide, 300 mm high
and as thick as the wall thickness. The test pieces shall be taken in three points, from
bottom, middle and top portion of the desired part of the culm, and stored under
conditions which ensure that the moisture content remains unchanged.
The test pieces shall be weighed to an accuracy of 0,01 g, and then dried in
an oven at a temperature of 110 2 C. After 30 minutes, the mass shall be
recorded. Great care shall be taken to prevent any change in moisture content
between removal from the oven and subsequent determinations of the mass.
The drying shall be considered to be complete when the difference between

the successive determinations of the mass does not exceed 0, 01 g.
89
Analysis:
The moisture content MC of each test piece shall be calculated as the loss in
mass, expressed as a percentage of the oven-dry mass, using the following formula:
The MC shall be calculated to an accuracy of one-tenth of a percent. This

MC shall be taken as representative of the MC of the tested specimen as a whole.
The arithmetic mean of the results obtained from the individual test pieces shall be
reported as the mean value for the moisture content of the test pieces.
mm o
M c( ) = { } x
mo
Where:
M c = moisture content in %
mo = the oven dry mass of the test specimen
m = the mass of specimen before drying
mmd
RM c ( ) = M c ( ){ } x 100
md
Where:
RM c = remaining moisture content in %
mo = the dry mass of the test specimen
m = the original mass of specimen
B.) DRY DENSITY DETERMINATION
Purpose:
90
This clause specifies a method for determining the mass by volume (density)
of bamboo for physical and mechanical tests. For accurate comparison between
reported values, the basic mass by volume is the most appropriate one, for the
determination of which oven-dry mass and green volume will be used because these
will not change, irrespective of weather conditions. If the mass by volume is to be
reported at the moisture content of the test sample, the mass is taken as the oven-
dry mass and only the volume is taken at the MC of the sample.
Standard Reference:
ISO 3131, Wood Determination of density for physical and mechanical

tests
Equipment:
Caliper, capable of determining the dimensions of the test pieces to an

accuracy of 0,1 mm. Electronic weighing scale, capable of weighing to an accuracy of
0,01 g.
Test Procedure:
Measure the dimensions of the test pieces to the nearest 0,1 mm, and
calculate the volume, or determine the volume using caliper to an accuracy of 10
mm3. Dry the test pieces to constant mass, but do this gradually to minimize their
deformation and splitting. Carry out the weighing operations immediately after drying.
Determine the mass of the test pieces to an accuracy of 0,01 g.
Analysis:
m 6
D= x 10
Vs
Where:
D =density in Kg/cu. m
m = the dry mass in gm of the test specimens
3
Vs = the dry volume of the test specimens in mm
C.) SHRINKAGE AND SWELLING DEFORMATION DETERMINATION
Standard Reference:
ISO 21557- Determination of Physical and Mechanical Properties of bamboo
Analysis:
Where:
{ Decrease dimension}
SH d ( ) = x 100
Original dimension
91
SH d = shrinkage in %
{ Increase dimension }
SW ( ) = x 100
Original dimension
SW d = swelling in %
D.) ABSORPTION DETERMINATION
Analysis:
The following formula was used to obtain the absorption of bamboo:
Where:
m am o
Ab () = { } x 100
Ab = absorption in % mo
m a = mass of air dry specimen
mo = mass of sundry specimen
E.) TENSILE STRENGTH DETERMINATION
Standard Reference:
ISO 3345, Wood Determination of ultimate tensile tress parallel to grain
Analysis:
The ultimate tensile strength is determined by using equation shown.
Where:
Pult
ult = { }
A
ult = the ultimate tensile strength in MPa
Pult = the maximum load at which the test piece fails in N

2
A = the cross sectional area of the specimen in mm
92
APPENDIX I
Report on Physical Properties Determination for Natural Air-Dry

Bamboo Specimen
Kind of Materials: Bamboo (3-4 years old Bambusa Blumeana)

Sample at: Santiago Old, Nabua, Camarines Sur
Geographical Locations: High land area with moist soil
Sample By: Researchers
Date: December 15, 2011
Tested By: Researchers
Test Method: ASTM D 143-94
ISO 3131/ ASTM D 2395-93
Computed By: Researchers
Date: March 2, 2012
Swelling (%) F-Shrinkage (%) Dry

Specimen Absorption
Density
Code Tangential Radial Tangential Radial %
(kg/cu. m)
N-1 - - 1.95 5.93 - 745.78

N-2 - - 3.59 5.83 - 718.47
N-3 - - 2.07 7.32 - 807.76
N-4 - - 4.14 6.67 - 652.56
N-5 - - 5.21 5.53 - 651.65
N-6 - - 4.24 7.08 - 672.09
N-7 - - 3.74 7.32 - 641.53
93
N-8 - - 4.66 6.77 - 619.02

N-9 - - 2.99 7.62 - 791.64
AVERAGE - - 3.62 6.674 - 700.06
Note: Tested bamboo specimen with 10-15% of remaining moisture content.

Tested by:
LOMPERO, DREXEN PAUL B. MATRICIO, ALEX C. TORALDE, JASON A.
Noted by: ENGR. NILO SALAZAR

APPENDIX J
Report on Physical Properties Determination for Immersed Bamboo

Specimen

Test Method: ASTM D 143-94
ISO 3131/ ASTM D 2395-93
Date: March 2, 2012
Specime Dry
Swelling (%) F-Shrinkage (%)
n Absorptio Density
Radia Radia n% (kg/cu.
Code Tangential Tangential m)
l l
F-1 1.99 2.32 0.72 1.31 85.04 583.94
F-7 2.07 2.51 1.04 2.62 85.53 785.93
F-14 3.25 3.91 1.06 4.36 87.8 544.53

94
S-1 2.45 2.86 0.7 2.78 83.9 645.12
S-7 2.52 3.81 1.1 3.25 86 657.04
S-14 2.55 5.47 1.27 3.78 87.13 657.52
Note: The number from specimen code signifies the immersing period.
*S- Immersed in saltwater
*F- Immersed in Fresh water
Tested by:

APPENDIX K
Noted by: ENGR. NILO SALAZAR
Report on Tensile Strength Test for Natural Air-dry Bamboo Specimen

Test Method: ISO 3345
Date: March 2, 2012
Specimen Tensile
Cross-sectional Failure Load
R-Mc Strength
Code Area (sq.mm) (kN)
(MPa)
N-1 10.97 314.45 43.9 139.61

N-2 12.36 334.75 44.6 133.23
N-3 15.45 331.8 40.8 122.97
N-4 9.22 335.22 48.2 143.79
N-5 12.7 381.9 49.6 129.88
N-6 10.01 333 46.9 140.84
N-7 9.47 299.25 42.2 141.02
95
N-8 13.13 405.48 50.3 124.05

N-9 10.62 340.2 47.9 140.8
Tested by:
Noted by: ENGR. FERMIN I. PETEZA

APPENDIX L
Chief, MQCHD
Report on Tensile Strength Test for Immersed Bamboo Specimen

Test Method: ISO 3345
Date: March 2, 2012
Specimen Cross-Sectonal Area Failure Tensile

R-M (%)
Code ( sq. mm) Load (kN) Strength
F-1 10.62 417.2 50.07 120.44
F-7 12.88 356.94 41.57 117.61
F-14 13.37 424.89 43.8 102.8
S-1 11.29 382.04 54.77 144.77
S-7 12.42 369.64 51.7 139.26
S-14 13.31 395.8 49.3 124.2
Note: Tested bamboo specimen with 10-15% of remaining moisture content.

96
Tested by:
Noted by: ENGR. FERMIN I. PETEZA

APPENDIX M
Chief, MQCHD
Report on Water Sample PH Determination

97
APPENDIX N
Computation for the One-Way Analysis of Variances
Respondent
(X) (X)2 (Y) (Y)2 (Z) (Z)2
Number
1 139.61 19490.9521 131.07 17179.5 133.72 17880.2
2 133.23 17750.2329 99.64 9927.5 143.72 20654.8
3 122.97 15121.6209 122.12 14914.2 156.86 24605.9
4 143.79 20675.5641 94.93 9011.2 143.39 20561.0
5 129.88 16868.8144 90.22 8138.9 149.34 22303.2
6 140.84 19835.9056 133.58 17843.8 125.03 15633.2
7 141.02 19886.6404 105.15 11056.4 133.19 17739.9
8 124.05 15388.4025 94.61 8951.6 116.35 13537.0
9 140.8 19824.64 108.65 11804.1 123.06 15142.7
Total 1216.19 164842.77 979.96 108827.21 1224.66 168057.79
N = 27
2
x 1216.19 X 164842.77
2
y 979.96 y 108827.21
2
z 1224.66 z 168057.79
t 3420.81 441727.77
( 3420.81 )2
SS T =( 164,842.76+108,828.12+ 168,057.83 ) =8,323.49
27
2 2 2 2
(1,216.19) (979.96) (1,224.66) ( 3420.81 )
SS B = + + =4,287.23
9 9 9 27
98
SS W =SS T SS B=8,323.494,287.23=4,036.26
APPENDIX O
Computation for the t-Test
X X
2
x (natural) 1,216.19 164,842.76

y (fresh) 979.96 108,828.12
z (salt) 1,224.66 168,057.83
N=9 ( 979.96 )2
SS 2=108,828.12 =2,125.72
9
1,216.19
x= =135.13
9 ( 1224.66 )2
SS 3=168,057.83 =1,414.26
979.96 9
y= =108.88
9
1224.66 df =N + N2
z= =136.07
9
df =9+92 df =16
( 1216.19 )2
SS 1=164,842.76 =496.3
9
@ x and y
135.13108.88
t1 = =40.43
(
496.3+ 2125.72 1 1
9+ 92
)( + )
9 9
@ y and z
108.88136.07
t2 = =3.88
(
2125.72+1414.26 1 1
9+ 92
)( + )
9 9
@ z and x
136.07135.13
t3 = =0.18
(
1414.26+ 496.3 1 1
9+92
)( + )
9 9
APPENDIX P
Researchers Specification
Physical Characteristic
Acceptance Criteria for Bamboo Culm
Characteristic Limits
Moisture Content
Bamboo Diameter 8 cm -12 cm
The original moisture content
of the specimen must contain 57% -

Internal Node 15 cm - 50 cm
150%. Under this study, the specific
moisture content that will be required

Culm Height 15 m - 25 m
shall conform to 1015% after
soaking and before applying loads. The methods of testing must conform to
ISO 3130.
Dry Density
The density of bamboo must vary from 500 to 800 kg/cu. m. The
methods for testing must conform to ISO 3131.
CURRICULUM VITAE
Personal Information
Name : Jason Amistas Toralde

Address : Santiago Old, Nabua, Camarines Sur
4434 Philippines
Email : jason.toralde@yahoo.com
Date of Birth : October 30, 1992
Place of Birth : San Esteban, Nabua, Camarines Sur
Citizenship : Filipino
Visa Status : Single
Gender : Male
Scholastic Attainment
TERTIARY EDUCATION : Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges

San Miguel, Nabua, Camarines Sur
2008-2013
COURSE : Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
SECONDARY EDUCATION : Nabua National High School

2004-2008
ELEMENTARY EDUCATION : Santiago Elementary School
Santiago Old, Nabua, Camarines Sur
1998-2004
Professional Affiliations
Philippine Institute Of Civil Engineers-Cspc Student Chapter

Member (2008-2013)
PARTICIPATION
13th National Bridge Building Competition

July 1, 2011
Participant/ Best in Aesthetics
Local Bridge Building Competition

October 11, 2010
Participant
SEMINARS
Appreciation Seminar on Water Supply Development

January 27, 2012
2011 Regional PICE Student Summit

October 18, 2011
Pile Foundation and Tests, Advances in Materials and Testing: Non-

Destructive Apparatus and Bidding Process
October 10, 2010
Global Warming: The Iriga City Experience and Construction Safety

December 11, 2009
Name : Drexen Paul Ballon Lompero

Address : Casugad, Bula, Camarines Sur
4430 Philippines
Email : drexen17lompero@yahoo.com
Date of Birth : April 15, 1993
Place of Birth : Casugad, Bula, Camarines Sur
Gender : Male

2008-2013
SECONDARY EDUCATION : Bula National High School

Sagrada, Bula, Camarines Sur
2004-2008
ELEMENTARY EDUCATION : Casugad Elementary School

Casugad, Bula, Camarines Sur
1998-2004

Member (2008-2013)
PARTICIPATION
13th National Bridge Building Competition

July 1, 2011
Participant/ Best in Aesthetics
Local Bridge Building Competition

October 11, 2010
Participant
SEMINARS

January 27, 2012

October 18, 2011

October 10, 2010
Name : Alex Cornelio Matricio

Address : Monte Calvario, Buhi, Camarines Sur
4433 Philippines
Email : alex_20cym@yahoo.com
Date of Birth : February 20, 1992
Place of Birth : Monte Calvario, Buhi, Camarines Sur
Gender : Male

2008-2013
SECONDARY EDUCATION : St. Bridget School

San Roque, Buhi, Camarines Sur
2004-2008
ELEMENTARY EDUCATION : Monte Calvario Elementary School

Monte Calvario, Buhi, Camarines Sur
1998-2004

Member (2008-2013)
SEMINARS

January 27, 2012

October 18, 2011

October 10, 2010
Global Warming: The Iriga City Experience and Construction Safety

December 11, 2009

Bamboo Thesis

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Bamboo Thesis

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Republic of the Philippines

CAMARINES SUR POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES

population on our planet spells so much of our future. With an increase of

This could be particularly true in the demand for natural resources

devastating as climate change comes in limelight. To successfully reverse the

current trend of forest degradation, experts continuously search for alternative

Bamboo is not an indigenous material well known to civil engineers.

In todays society, recognition of bamboo as conventional construction

materials is growing due to its natural characteristics and good mechanical

properties. As a matter of fact, some regions in the world continue to use

bamboo structures up to this day (Xiao et. al., 2008).

The many characteristics of bamboo made it an enduring, versatile and

highly renewable resource, because of its strength, flexibility and versatility,

purposes (e.g. bridges, scaffoldings) for centuries, particularly in rural areas.

Bamboo provides pillars, walls, window frames, rafters, room separators,

is used in the making of furniture, handicrafts, musical instruments, basket

applications as a substitute for fast depleting wood and as an alternative to

for road embankment stabilization are now becoming known. It is equally

important for providing fast vegetative cover to deforested areas (Inbar).

Bamboo, as one of the fastest generators of bio-mass, is also becoming

important in the sequestration of CO2 . For construction purposes, bamboo

can basically be used in its natural form as round culm or transformed

through a manual, semi-industrial or industrial process in different

construction products (Flander).

people and in rural industry, especially in tropical regions, such as Philippines,

applications, such as flooring, ceiling, walls, windows, doors, fences, housing

roofs, trusses, rafters and purling. It is also extended to different engineering

field in industrial applications, construction and structural materials for

bridges, water transportation facilities, panel board, scaffoldings and bamboo

is used as mean of transportation.

Despite its many theoretical advantages, the widespread engineers

perceived inadequate durability. Since bamboo is a natural material of organic

made. The presence of starch make it more attractive to micro-organism that

and value of the bamboo. Treatment is absolutely necessary when bamboo is

used as structural member where safety is one of the major concerns. It is

minimize the attack of fungi and insect.

immersion or by any other means is to allow the salt to "destroy" or change

treatment by diffusion and pressure.

Treating bamboo using conventional and chemical methods are

strength properties of the bamboo. Studies on bamboo strength properties in

natural condition have been conducted by several researchers. However, the

study on the strength properties of bamboo after preservative treatment is still

have on mechanical properties.

For consideration of bamboo preservation, knowledge of available

methods, their advantages and disadvantages are concern.

Aware of these issues, the researchers find it interesting to investigate

the tensile strength of bambusa blumeana bamboo immersed in salt-water

However, these materials should undergo necessary evaluation and

observation to know its potential and uses.

conventional -treated bamboo (immersed in salt water and immersed in fresh

water) by investigating the properties of bamboo species bambusa

blumeana. Moreover, tensile strength analysis of bamboo was made with an

intention of addressing the feasibility of bamboo in application for structural

Generally the following points were the specific objectives of this

1. To determine the physical properties of Bambusa blumeana

bamboo in terms of moisture content, dry density, shrinkage and swelling

deformation and absorption for the following conditions:

b. Immersed in Fresh water

c. Immersed in Salt water

2. To ascertain the tensile strength of Bambusa blumeana bamboo

for the following condition:

b. Immersed in Fresh water

c. Immersed in Salt water