Mapping the structure, composition and mechanical properties of bamboo

The structure, composition, and mechanical response of Australian bamboo were investigated. The graded structure, composition, and mechanical properties were confirmed by depth profiles obtained using synchrotron radiation diffraction and Vickers indentation. The mechanical performance of bamboo was strongly dependent on age. Results indicated that young bamboo has a higher strength, elastic stiffness, and fracture toughness than its older counterpart does. In addition, the hardness of bamboo is both load dependent and time dependent as a result of an expanding interfacial damage zone and indentation creep, respectively. In addition to fiber debonding, crack deflection and crack-bridging are the major energy dissipative processes for imparting a high toughness in bamboo.