Evaluating Ferro-Cement and Bamboo as Sustainable Alternatives for Disaster-Resilient Construction

This study contributes to the growing body of research on sustainable and resilient civil infrastructure by exploring alternative construction materials that can mitigate the risks associated with natural disasters. Focusing on the use of ferro-cement and bamboo as substitutes for conventional concrete, the research aims to address the dual challenges of environmental sustainability and infrastructure resilience. Bamboo, recognized for its rapid growth, ecofriendliness, and structural strength, is evaluated as a potential reinforcement material. The study involves the laboratory analysis and casting of 40 beams, including M30 reinforced cement concrete (RCC) beams, steel-reinforced ferro-cement beams, bamboo-reinforced ferro-cement beams, and bamboo-reinforced beams. Following a 28-day curing period, the beams undergo rigorous flexural testing using a three-point load test on a universal testing machine (UTM). In addition to evaluating flexural behavior, the study also assesses key mechanical properties such as ductility index, toughness, and proof resilience to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the materials’ performance under different loading conditions. These parameters are critical for evaluating the flexibility, energy absorption capacity, and structural resilience of the beams, especially in disaster-prone areas where cost-effective and resilient construction is essential. The findings underscore ferro-cement, particularly when reinforced with bamboo, as a viable alternative to traditional concrete, especially for low-cost construction projects in developing regions. While steel-reinforced ferro-cement beams exhibit superior strength and load-bearing capacity, bamboo-reinforced beams demonstrate significant advantages in flexibility and energy absorption, making them suitable for temporary or portable structures. The study provides valuable insights for civil engineers, construction professionals, and policymakers seeking sustainable solutions to enhance infrastructure resilience against natural hazards, particularly in areas with limited resources.