Flexural Performance of I-Joist Fabricated with Glue-Laminated Bamboo and Gmelina arborea Plywood

The search for efficient and versatile structural elements, leads to the fabrication of I-joists (6.5 cm × 18.5 cm × 600 cm (width × depth × length) with glue-laminated bamboo (Guada angustifolia) in the flanges and Gmelina arborea 12-mm structural plywood in the web. The results showed a modulus of rupture (MOR) of 39.45 MPa and an effective modulus of elasticity (MOE) of 17.05 GPa. Shearing in the glue line was 5.95 MPa and the lamination strength was 6.45 MPa. Structural design values averaged 9.43 MPa for bending and 4.72 MPa in shear according to Costa Rican structural standards. Both resistance value (flexure and shear) were considered satisfactory for structural proposes and I-joists fabricated with bamboo and G. arborea plywood are comparable with the Andean classification group “C” structural grade. The use of this I-joist was also shown in roofing and flooring systems. This beam can be used in allowable spans from 2 to 4 m in span for flooring systems and from 5 to 7 m for roofing applications.