Properties of parallel strand lumber from Calcutta bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus)

The objectives of this work were to analyze the physical and mechanical properties of parallel strand lumber (PSL) made from Calcutta bamboo. Based on the surface characteristics (Ahmad and Kamke 2003) and physical and mechanical properties (Ahmad and Kamke 2005) observed in previous work, a prototype PSL from Calcutta bamboo was manufactured and tested in the laboratory. Physical properties determined were dimensional stability and water absorption. The mechanical tests carried out were in compression and bending. Ultimate stress, stress at proportional limit, and modulus of elasticity were determined and compared to structural composite lumber (SCL) from several timber species produced by other researchers and manufacturers in the United States. The PSL produced was also exposed to accelerated aging process in order to assess its durability under extreme condition. PSL produced in the laboratory was stable in dimension. The mechanical characteristics compare favorably to SCL produced in other studies and SCL products available in the United States. The accelerated aging process was found to reduce the bending strength but no significant difference was detected in bending stiffness, and compression strength and stiffness. This is a promising indication of the suitability of Calcutta bamboo as raw material for structural composite products.