Estimation of the compression capacity of round bamboo columns considering the relationship between mechanical properties and culm geometry

This study aims to establish an estimation method for the compression strength of full-culm bamboo columns by conducting buckling tests on small-scale specimens and comparing the results with theoretical formulations. The bending Young’s modulus and crushing strength are experimentally evaluated, and their relationships with culm diameter are analyzed using regression equations. The results indicate a strong negative correlation between culm diameter and Young’s modulus, while the correlation with crushing strength varies between bamboo species. Following above, the study verifies the accuracy of Ylinen’s formula for estimating compression strength, showing that when mechanical properties are accurately evaluated, predictions align well with experimental results. However, variability in crushing strength introduces uncertainty, highlighting the need for further refinement of estimation methods. The findings suggest that incorporating gradient characteristics of material properties can improve the practicality of design formulations.