Evaluating the load-carrying performance of single-bolted connections of inorganic-bonded bamboo composite

ABSTRACT In the field of civil engineering, the utilization of bio-based composites is a viable solution for promoting environmentally friendly practices. A novel bio-based inorganic-bonded bamboo composite (InorgBam) prepared with roller-pressing impregnation, cold pressing, and molding technology was first introduced, and 72 double-shear specimens were tested to investigate the load-carrying performance of InorgBam single-bolted connections. The failure characteristics of the InorgBam single-bolted connections were evaluated using the European yield model (EYM). By incorporating the existing bilinear and Attiogbe models, the load-displacement relationship of the InorgBam single-bolted connections was foretasted with precision. The effect of bolt diameter and component thickness on load-bearing capacity was compared, and relevant design suggestions were proposed. Prediction equations of load-bearing capacity for timber connections in existing standards were briefly reviewed and compared with the test results to illustrate their applicability for InorgBam connections. Comparison results indicated that the equations for timbers exhibited an adequate safety redundancy for the InorgBam. Finally, a simplified equation was proposed based on nonlinear fitting that aims to provide a convenient approach to design activities for InorgBam bolted connections and promote the structural application of InorgBam material.