A two-variable model for predicting the effects of moisture content and density on compressive strength parallel to the grain for moso bamboo

Abstract

It is well known that mechanical performances of bamboos are significantly affected by moisture content (MC) and specific density. However, until now, no published studies have attempted to combine these two factors into one predictive model. In this paper, a two-variable model for predicting the combined effects of MC and specific density on compressive strength parallel to the grain (CSP) for moso bamboo was established and validated. The results show that the two-variable model is capable of predicting the CSP for bamboos of variable density and MC with significantly higher accuracy than either of the single-variable models. It is envisioned that this model could play an important role in supporting non-destructive evaluations of bamboos mechanical properties, greatly enhancing the potential applications of bamboo-based engineered products in commercial fields.