equipamentos urbanos de bambu com ligações de fibras vegetais ...

ABSTRACT
One of the largest difficulties concerning the use of bamboo in constructions is the
connection of the culms. The hollow and cylindrical form limits the variety of connections.
The present work presents several types of connections developed with sisal blankets in
polymer matrixes. Those connections are designed in way to give flexibility for the architect,
facilitating the use of three-dimensional joints, and at the same time, being resistant to loads
and waste. In laboratory, linear tubular joints with sisal fibers in matrix of polyester resin
were elaborated. The casting process of the several types of connections is distinguished in 3
phases: mixing, impregnation and molding (manual). The connections of the sisal composites
and resins were tested in compression, bending and tension. In compression, the developed
connection remained intact until the deformation of the culms. Similar results are observed in
the bending test, as far with pins as without pins, the connection did not present deformations.
In tension the connection presented lower strength than the bamboo and the presence of
metallic pins was necessary. Based in this type of connections were elaborated architectural
projects, using just a basic structural element. It was built a prototype at the UFPB. The
structural calculations showed that the proposed connections are capable to resist with safety
to the applied forces.
Keywords: Bamboo, composite, joints, sisal, polymer matrix.