Study of screwed bamboo connection loaded parallel to fibre

A method for connecting unfilled natural bamboo was proposed, comprising screws and metal plates. The method is commonly used in timber connections, yet in bamboo connections screws are rarely seen, mostly due to the perceived risk of splitting. This study aimed to assess the applicability of screws in bamboo through extensive testing of short-term laterally loaded connection parallel to fibre, including variation of several parameters. An existing timber model was found to be appropriate to estimate the connection yield capacity. In terms of the environmental benefits, connection capacity, stiffness and ductility, the method appears to be an attractive alternative to the common mortar-infilled bolted bamboo connection. The risk of splitting was found to be low provided appropriate spacing parallel and across fibre between screws is provided. The main outcome of the study is the design guidance for the proposed connection, including spacing rules and prediction of the connection capacity.