Concrete Reinforced with Bamboo: A Review of Structural Performance

The environmental burden of steel has driven interest in renewable alternatives for reinforcing concrete. Bamboo’s sustainability and cost-effectiveness make it a favored choice for researchers amid rising demand for ecofriendly construction materials. This paper comprehensively evaluates the structural effectiveness of beams made of bamboo-reinforced concrete (BRC), emphasizing its potential as a more sustainable option for steel reinforcement due to their lower carbon footprint and renewability. The mechanical, microstructural, and physical characteristics of bamboo are summarized and the influence of species, age, and moisture content on tensile, compressive, and shear properties is highlighted. Durability challenges associated with moisture absorption and biological degradation are examined along with treatment methods that improve bond strength and service life. Experimental results of the flexural behavior and failure modes of BRC beams are discussed and compared with those of steel-reinforced concrete (SRC). This paper critically reviews the challenges of bamboo utilization in structural engineering, outlines key design recommendations and research gaps, and offers perspectives intended to inform future research and guide the safe adoption of bamboo in low-cost housing and rural infrastructure.