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Innovative sandwich-like composite biopanels–towards a new building biomaterials concept for structural applications in nonconventional building systems

Abstract:

Redirecting the actual construction industry, which is one of the major sources of global pollution, is relevant to achieve green innovation efficiency. Researching on the potentials of wood species can lead to propose alternatives that allow reducing/reinventing conventional building materials and systems. This investigation aims to determine, evaluate and analyze the biomechanical/structural properties and performances of lightweight sandwich-like composite biopanels made of bamboo, melina and balsa. A total of 92 samples were experimentally tested under compression, bending, shear, tension, density, moisture content, glue and ply-delamination. The experimental data were validated and compensated through 82 finite element analyses. The acquired results were compared with equivalent sections of conventional materials in terms of strength, rigidity, structural behavior and mechanical efficiency. E.g. the results show the biopanels are up to two and three times more mechanically resistant than solid wall bricks and concrete block walls, respectively; and, up to nine times higher in terms of mechanical efficiency than steel. The results from the biomechanical analyses confirm the practical utilization of the wall biopanels into nonconventional building projects even as structural elements; most important, the implementation of the proposed wall biopanels into actual building systems would significantly reduce fatalities and destroyed dwellings during seismic and windy events due to its remarkable flexibility, strength and ductility.