Italian bamboo for innovative structural applications: research conducted at the University of Bologna
Various species of bamboo can be cultivated in areas where the climate is temperate such as Italy. They have different geometric characteristics compared to the species of tropical or subtropical areas but have similar or often superior mechanical characteristics. Several tests were conducted at the University of Bologna for the characterization of six species of Phyllostachys cultivated in northern Italy. The results of the experimental campaign will be shown. The experience gained made it possible to write the first Italian legislation (UNI11842-2021) on the mechanical characterization of bamboo with some changes with respect to ISO 22157. Some applications will then be illustrated such as the use of Italian bamboo in frame structures, scaffolding and in the retrofitting of existing buildings showing how it is possible to build with this material in the context of current regulations by combining national regulations with the ISO standards.
Luisa Molari
DICAM, Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna