Flexural behaviour of bamboo scrimber beams with different composite and reinforced technology: A literature review

Bamboo scrimber (BS) is a novel renewable biocomposite material with excellent mechanical performance and stability that is suitable for load-bearing structural members. Beam-type components are among the most widely used members in structural engineering, and their flexural behaviour is crucial for the safety and applicability of structures. Based on a review of the existing literature, this article presents a comprehensive overview and discussion of the research and development of various forms of beam-type BS members with the aim of reaching a clearer understanding of the bending mechanisms and mechanical characteristics of BS beams. The members highlighted in this review include general BS beams, reinforced BS beams (with steel bars and fibre-reinforced polymer plates), composite BS beams (with profile steel and concrete), and strengthened damaged BS beams. Moreover, the factors affecting the flexural performance of BS beams, such as span-depth ratios, their mechanical properties, and reinforcing materials, are analysed quantitatively. Finally, the calculation models for the flexural bearing capacity and stiffness of BS beams are summarised and compared. This review aims to illustrate the potential of BS in the field of structural engineering and provide references for future research and design methods for BS flexural members.