ARM COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND
TECHNOLOGY
DESIGN FABRICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION
OF A MULTIPURPOSE DISMOUNTABLE
BAMBOO GEODESIC DOME
BATCHMATES NAME - BRAMMA RAJ K – 410322103302
NAGARAJAN K - 410322103307
GUIDE NAME - [Link]
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ABSTRACT
Bamboo is a non-characterized and non-validated material which is
readily available in rural areas in India and has great scope as a building
material. It has excellent strength under tension and compression and can used
for construction purpose almost exclusively as well as with reinforced concrete
and has many other applications. The objective of this part of the major project
was to construct a bamboo based geodesic dome of 6 m diameter to cover with a
net, to put load at the bottom joints and to obtain the joint stability of the
bamboo. The bamboo used for the fabrication of dome is from Assam. The
joints are made strong after the testing.
The tension testing and compression testing were conducted on the
samples. When 2 nodes are between the joint and the edge, the shear stress
observed is greater than the case when no node is between the joint and the
edge. Also the compressive strength of the bamboo with a node is greater than
the bamboo sample without node.
Thus the thickness of the bamboo and the position of node play an
important role in the construction of dome. . The dome can be used by the rural
community for various purposes and being dismountable, it can be carried to
various places. The dome is constructed of only bamboo struts which make it
affordable to everyone.
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INTRODUCTON
ABOUT BAMBOO
Bamboo is one of nature’s most valuable gifts to mankind. It is one of the
fastest-growing plants on Earth. It is a versatile, strong, renewable and
environment-friendly material. Bamboo has remarkable properties as a
construction material, being both light weight and extremely strength and
durable. Bamboo having considerable tensile and compressive strength as a
construction material is used widely. If it is mixed with some durable material
like mortar and concrete than its durability as well as the strength taking ability
will be much higher [Mahzuz et al., 2011]. It is seen that everyday about 2.5
billion people in Asia use bamboo for their everyday work [Scurlock et al.,
2000]. There are several differences between bamboo and wood.
In bamboo, there are no rays or knots, which give bamboo a far more
evenly distributed stresses throughout its length. Bamboo is a hollow tube,
sometimes with thin walls, and consequently it is more difficult to join bamboo
than pieces of wood. Bamboo does not contain the same chemical extractives as
wood, and can therefore be glued very well [Jassen 1995]. Bamboo is relished as
food in its shoots and its culms are converted into products such as household
utensils, bridges, baskets, joss-papers, joss-sticks, tooth-picks, skewers, poultry
cages and handicrafts [Azmy, 1989; Wong, 1989].
To ensure adequate supply of bamboo resources in the future and to
maintain a well-balanced forest environment, systematic management principles
should be made available. With the application of systematic management
principles on the natural stand bamboos, the production of bamboo stock can be
increased [Fateh Mohammad, 1931; Numara, 1979; Liese, 1985]. Construction
industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. Production of both
concrete and steel causes
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Considerable deterioration of the environment. For example cement
requires over 1400°C by burning fossil fuel [CS Monitor, 2008; Aziz, 1995].
Most bamboo species produce mature fiber in 3 years, sooner than any tree
species. Some bamboos grow up to 1 meter a day, with many reaching culms
lengths of 25 meters or more. Bamboo can be grown quickly and easily, and
sustainably harvested in 3 to 5 years cycles.
It grows on marginal and degraded land, elevated ground, along field
bunds and river banks. Some bamboo even sequester up to 12 tons of carbon
dioxide from the air per hectare. Bamboo can also lower light intensity and
protects against ultraviolet rays. It adapts to most climatic conditions and soil
types, acting as a soil stabilizer, an effective carbon sink and helping to counter
the greenhouse effect [Bamboo for integrated Rural Development, 2008]. Table
1-1 provides a detailed description of diversified bamboo utilization.
Table 1-1 Various uses of bamboo [Gielis, 2002]
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Typically, species like dendrocallamus giganteus (DG) have tensile
strength of about 120 MPa, compressive strength of 55 MPa and Young’s
modulus of 14 GPa. Mild steel has an ultimate strength of 410 MPa, yield
strength of 250 MPa and Young’s modulus of 20 GPa. Concrete has much lower
strength than those of bamboo reported here. In addition, the low density of
bamboo, which is typically 700 kg/m3, results in much higher strength to weight
ratio as compared to steel (density = 7800 kg/m3) and concrete (density=
2400 kg/m3).
Bamboo offers competitive strength to mass ratio. It is free from
corrosion and is very light. Besides, bamboo costs just six per cent of the price
of steel. The only shortcoming with raw bamboo is susceptibility to termite
attack which can be set aside by suitable chemical treatment [Bhalla et al.,
2008].
BAMBOO IN INDIA
India is blessed with very rich bamboo resources. With about 22
genera and 136 species, it is one of the largest, next only to China with
its 26 genera and 300 species. The areas particularly rich in bamboo are
the North Eastern States, the Western Ghats, Chattisgarh, M.P. and
Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The important genera are Arundinaria, Bambusa, Dendrocalamus,
Dinochloa, Gigantochloa, Melocanna, Oxytenanhthera and
Pseudostachyum etc. Of the nearly 136 species, at present only about
few are being commercially exploited today [Bamboo for integrated
Rural Development, 2008].
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PROPERTIES OF BAMBOO
1. SHRINKAGE AND SWELLING
Bamboo, like wood, changes its dimension when it loses or gains
moisture. Bamboo is a hygroscopic material, thus the moisture content
changes with the changes in the relative humidity and temperature of
the surrounding environment [Razak et al., 1995].
Dimensional stability is very crucial in structural products
because the safety and comfort in a structure usually depends on them.
Free water and bound water exists in bamboo, however the amount of
free water is small as compared to bound water. This explains why the
bamboo starts to shrink as soon as it loses moisture [Tewari, 1992].
TENSION PARALLEL TO GRAIN
Tension tests parallel to the grain are seldom investigated for
bamboo. Tensile strength values of Bamboo cannot be utilized as such in
practical work, as bamboo will fail by shear long before its full tensile
stress is developed. The tension strength value is a fundamental criterioin
order to design bamboo tension members [Limaye, 1952].
BENDING
The bending is an important parameter, deciding the suitability of
Bamboo as a construction material. Because of this ability Bamboo can
be used as a substitute for reinforcement in construction of buildings
[Hearn, 1997]
parameters is as appended below in the form of a chart.
TABLE 1.2 Comparisons of Bamboo and Other Materials [Janssen, J.A.,
2000]
BAMBOO USED
The Bamboo used for constructing the geodesic dome is “Assam Bamboo”
as seen in Fig. 1.1
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LITERATURE REVIEW
1. Aziz, M.A. (1995),” Engineering Materials”, Z and Z Computer and
Printers, Dhaka, Bangladesh,
Engineering materials play a vital role in the design, development, and
performance of engineering structures and components. A clear understanding
of the properties, behaviour, and applications of materials such as metals,
ceramics, polymers, and composites enables engineers to make informed
decisions that ensure safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. As discussed,
material selection must consider mechanical strength, durability, environmental
conditions, and economic factors. The study of engineering materials therefore
forms a fundamental foundation for engineering practice and innovation,
contributing significantly to technological advancement and sustainable
development.
2. Azmy, H.M. (1989), “Venture on the Making of Fish or Vegetable and
Charcoal Baskets”, Forest Research Institute, Kepong
The venture into the making of fish, vegetable, and charcoal baskets
highlights the importance of traditional craftsmanship and the effective use of
forest-based materials. Basket making not only provides a practical solution for
storage and transportation but also supports rural livelihoods and small-scale
industries. By utilizing locally available resources and simple production
techniques, this craft promotes sustainability, employment generation, and value
addition to forest products. Encouraging such ventures can contribute to
economic development while preserving indigenous knowledge and
environmentally friendly practices.
3. Bamboo as a building material (2002),University of Aachen, Germany
Bamboo has proven to be an efficient, sustainable, and versatile building
material with significant potential for modern construction. Its high strength-to-
weight ratio, rapid growth cycle, and renewability make bamboo an
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environmentally friendly alternative to conventional materials such as timber,
steel, and concrete. The study highlights that bamboo possesses excellent tensile
strength, flexibility, and resilience, which make it particularly suitable for
structures in seismic and low-cost housing applications.
In addition to its mechanical advantages, bamboo contributes to
sustainable development by reducing deforestation and lowering the carbon
footprint of construction activities. Its availability in many tropical and
subtropical regions makes it an economical choice for rural and developing
areas, while appropriate treatment and preservation techniques can significantly
enhance its durability and resistance to pests, moisture, and decay.
Furthermore, the use of bamboo in construction supports local economies
by encouraging small-scale industries and traditional building skills. With
proper design standards, quality control, and engineering practices, bamboo
structures can meet safety and performance requirements comparable to
conventional building systems. Therefore, bamboo should be recognized not
only as a traditional material but also as a modern, eco-friendly construction
material capable of contributing to sustainable architecture and environmentally
responsible development.
4. BAMBOO FOR INTEGRATED RURAL DEVELOPMENT (2008),
Bamboo plays a crucial role in integrated rural development due to its
multifunctional uses, rapid growth, and wide availability. As a renewable and
versatile natural resource, bamboo contributes significantly to improving rural
livelihoods through employment generation, income diversification, and the
development of small- and cottage-scale industries. Its applications in housing,
furniture, handicrafts, agricultural tools, and energy resources make it an
essential material for rural communities.
The study highlights that bamboo-based development supports sustainable
land use and environmental conservation. Bamboo plantations help prevent soil
erosion, improve water retention, and reduce pressure on natural forests. In
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addition, bamboo’s fast regeneration cycle ensures a continuous supply of raw
material, making it an economically viable and environmentally friendly
resource for long-term rural development programs.
Furthermore, the integration of bamboo into rural development strategies
promotes skill development, entrepreneurship, and community participation. By
combining traditional knowledge with modern processing techniques, bamboo
can enhance productivity and product quality while increasing market
opportunities. Overall, bamboo serves as a strategic resource for achieving
balanced rural development, poverty alleviation, environmental sustainability,
and socio-economic growth.
5. Bhalla, S., Gupta, S., Puttaguna, S. and Suresh, R. (2008), “Bamboo as
Green Alternative to Concrete and Steel for Modern Structures”, Journal
of Environmental Research and Development,
The study demonstrates that bamboo is a viable and environmentally
sustainable alternative to conventional construction materials such as concrete
and steel for modern structures. Owing to its high tensile strength, flexibility,
and low self-weight, bamboo exhibits excellent structural performance,
particularly in earthquake-resistant and low-rise constructions. Its mechanical
properties, when properly treated and engineered, can effectively meet the
demands of modern building design.
From an environmental perspective, bamboo significantly reduces the
carbon footprint of construction activities. Unlike concrete and steel, which
require high energy consumption and emit large amounts of greenhouse gases
during production, bamboo is a renewable material with a rapid growth cycle
and high carbon sequestration capacity. Its use therefore supports sustainable
construction practices and aligns with global goals for climate change
mitigation.
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Economically, bamboo offers cost-effective solutions, especially in
developing regions, by utilizing locally available resources and reducing
dependency on expensive industrial materials. The research also highlights the
importance of appropriate preservation, jointing techniques, and design
standards to ensure durability, safety, and long-term performance.
6. Building materials (2005),
The study of building materials emphasizes the importance of selecting
materials that ensure structural safety, durability, and sustainability, particularly
in earthquake-prone regions. Bamboo emerges as a highly effective building
material due to its lightweight nature, high tensile strength, and exceptional
flexibility. These properties enable bamboo structures to absorb and dissipate
seismic energy more efficiently than many conventional rigid materials, thereby
reducing the risk of sudden structural failure during earthquakes.
In addition to its structural advantages, bamboo is a renewable and
environmentally friendly material with a low embodied energy compared to
steel and concrete. Its rapid growth and widespread availability make it an
economical option for both rural and urban construction, especially in
developing countries. Proper treatment, preservation, and design practices
significantly enhance bamboo’s resistance to insects, moisture, and decay,
ensuring long-term performance and safety.
Furthermore, the use of bamboo as a building material supports
sustainable development by minimizing environmental impact, promoting the
use of local resources, and encouraging community participation in construction
activities. The study highlights that with appropriate engineering design, quality
control, and construction techniques, bamboo can serve as a reliable and modern
building material. Overall, bamboo represents a practical, cost-effective, and
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sustainable solution for resilient construction, particularly in regions vulnerable
to natural disasters such as earthquakes.
7. Davis, T. (2011) – Geodesic Dome:
The geodesic dome represents an efficient and innovative structural
system that combines strength, stability, and material economy. Its geometric
configuration distributes structural loads evenly across interconnected triangular
elements, resulting in high strength with minimal material usage. This efficiency
makes geodesic domes suitable for a wide range of applications, including
housing, exhibition spaces, greenhouses, and emergency shelters.
The study highlights that geodesic domes offer excellent resistance to
external forces such as wind, snow, and seismic loads due to their aerodynamic
shape and inherent structural redundancy. Their lightweight nature allows for
faster construction, reduced foundation requirements, and lower overall costs
compared to conventional building systems. Additionally, the adaptability of
geodesic dome designs enables the use of alternative and sustainable materials,
such as bamboo or lightweight steel, further enhancing their environmental
benefits.
Overall, geodesic domes provide a practical and sustainable solution for
modern construction by maximizing structural efficiency while minimizing
environmental impact. With proper design, engineering analysis, and material
selection, geodesic domes can contribute significantly to resilient, cost-effective,
and sustainable architectural development.
8. DeBoer, D., Bareis, K., “Bamboo building and culture- the
architecture of Simon Velez”, architect, Bogota, Colombia.
The study of bamboo building and culture, as reflected in the architectural
works of Simón Vélez, demonstrates the successful integration of traditional
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materials with modern engineering and architectural innovation. Bamboo, when
properly treated and structurally detailed, is shown to be capable of supporting
large-span and permanent structures while maintaining aesthetic and cultural
value. Vélez’s work highlights how indigenous knowledge and craftsmanship
can be combined with contemporary design principles to create structurally
sound and visually compelling architecture.
The research emphasizes the cultural significance of bamboo as more than a
construction material; it represents identity, sustainability, and local heritage.
By elevating bamboo to a material suitable for high-profile architectural
projects, these works challenge conventional perceptions that limit bamboo to
temporary or low-cost construction. Advanced jointing techniques, innovative
structural systems, and careful material selection play a crucial role in ensuring
safety, durability, and long-term performance.
Overall, bamboo architecture as exemplified by Simón Vélez offers a
model for sustainable and culturally responsive construction. It promotes
environmental responsibility, supports local economies, and preserves
traditional building knowledge while meeting modern architectural and
structural demands. This approach demonstrates that bamboo can serve as a
legitimate, durable, and sophisticated material for contemporary architecture
worldwide.
9. Fateh, M. (1931) – The Bamboo Forest of Hoshiarpur District, Punjab:
The study of the bamboo forests of the Hoshiarpur District in Punjab
provides valuable insight into the ecological, economic, and management
significance of bamboo resources in the region. The research highlights the
distribution, growth characteristics, and productivity of bamboo species,
emphasizing their importance as a renewable forest resource. Bamboo forests
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play a crucial role in supporting local livelihoods by supplying raw materials
for construction, handicrafts, agricultural implements, and fuel.
From an environmental perspective, bamboo contributes significantly to
soil conservation, erosion control, and ecological balance. Its extensive root
system helps stabilize soil and improve moisture retention, particularly in hilly
and erosion-prone areas. The study also underscores the need for systematic
forest management practices, including controlled harvesting, regeneration
planning, and protection measures, to ensure the sustainable utilization of
bamboo resources.
Overall, the bamboo forests of Hoshiarpur District represent an important
natural asset with long-term socio-economic and environmental value. Effective
management and conservation of these forests can enhance rural livelihoods,
promote sustainable forest use, and ensure the continued availability of bamboo
as a vital resource. The findings remain relevant for contemporary forestry
planning, sustainable resource management, and bamboo-based rural
development initiatives.
10. “Geodesic Dome” – Soul visuals:
The concept of the geodesic dome represents an efficient and innovative
structural form that combines geometric precision with structural strength and
material economy. By utilizing a network of interconnected triangular elements,
geodesic domes are able to distribute loads evenly throughout the structure,
resulting in exceptional stability and strength while using minimal construction
material. This makes them highly suitable for applications such as residential
buildings, exhibition spaces, greenhouses, temporary shelters, and eco-friendly
structures.
The study highlights the advantages of geodesic domes in terms of energy
efficiency, as their spherical form encloses the maximum volume with the least
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surface area, reducing heat loss and improving thermal performance.
Additionally, their aerodynamic shape offers strong resistance to wind and
seismic forces, making them particularly effective in regions prone to natural
disasters. The adaptability of geodesic domes allows the use of alternative and
sustainable materials, including bamboo, further enhancing their environmental
benefits.
Overall, geodesic domes present a sustainable, cost-effective, and
structurally efficient building solution. With proper design, material selection,
and construction techniques, they offer a viable alternative to conventional
building systems. Their integration into modern architecture supports
innovation, resilience, and environmentally responsible development, aligning
well with the principles of sustainable and green construction.
11. “Geodesic Dome”
The geodesic dome is a highly efficient structural system that exemplifies
the effective use of geometry in architectural and engineering design. Composed
of a network of interlocking triangular elements, the dome distributes structural
stresses evenly across its surface, resulting in exceptional strength, stability, and
load-bearing capacity with minimal material usage. This structural efficiency
makes geodesic domes suitable for a wide range of applications, including
residential buildings, industrial structures, exhibition halls, greenhouses, and
emergency shelters.
The study highlights the advantages of geodesic domes in terms of
durability and resilience. Their spherical form provides excellent resistance to
external forces such as wind, snow, and earthquakes, while their lightweight
construction reduces foundation requirements and overall construction costs.
Additionally, geodesic domes offer superior energy efficiency, as their shape
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minimizes surface area relative to enclosed volume, leading to reduced heat loss
and improved thermal performance.
Furthermore, geodesic domes support sustainable construction practices
by allowing the use of alternative and eco-friendly materials such as bamboo,
timber, or lightweight steel. Their modular design enables faster construction,
adaptability, and scalability. Overall, the geodesic dome represents a practical,
innovative, and sustainable architectural solution that continues to influence
modern design by combining structural efficiency, environmental responsibility,
and architectural flexibility.
12. Ghavami, K. (2005) – Bamboo as Reinforcement in Structural
Concrete:
The study by Ghavami examines the potential of bamboo as a structural
material, emphasizing its mechanical properties, sustainability, and applicability
in construction. The research highlights bamboo’s high tensile strength, low
weight, and renewability, making it a viable alternative to conventional
construction materials in low-cost and eco-friendly structures. The study also
discusses treatment methods to improve durability and resistance against
moisture, insects, and biological degradation.
From a structural engineering perspective, bamboo demonstrates
favorable performance under tensile and compressive loads when properly
processed and detailed. The research further addresses challenges related to
material variability, joint design, and long-term performance, stressing the
importance of standardized testing and design guidelines..
Overall, the study concludes that bamboo holds significant promise as a
sustainable construction material, particularly in developing regions. The
findings provide a strong foundation for bamboo-based structural systems,
including geodesic domes, by emphasizing the need for appropriate treatment,
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connection detailing, and design considerations to achieve safe and durable
structures.
Janssen, J.A. (1995), “Building with bamboo (second edition)”,
Intermediate Technology Publication Limited, London. pp. 65.
Although the design methods presented are largely empirical and
simplified, reflecting the limited analytical tools available at the time, the book
laid the groundwork for later research on engineered bamboo and modern
bamboo structures. Many subsequent studies and design guidelines reference
Janssen’s work as a foundational source.
A major contribution of this work is its clear presentation of design
principles for bamboo structures, including bending, compression, and joint
behavior. Janssen emphasizes the importance of connection detailing, durability,
and protection against moisture and biological degradation, which are critical
challenges in bamboo construction. The text also discusses traditional building
practices and adapts them into more rational, engineering-based approaches.
Overall, Building with Bamboo remains a seminal reference that bridges
vernacular bamboo construction and modern structural engineering, providing
essential knowledge for researchers and practitioners involved in sustainable and
low-cost building systems.
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REFERENCES
1. Aziz, M.A. (1995),”Engineering Materials”, Z and Z Computer and
Printers, Dhaka,Bangladesh, p. 65.
2. Azmy, H.M. (1989), “Venture on the Making of Fish or Vegetable and
Charcaoal Baskets” Forest Research Institute, Kepong, p. 8.
3. Bamboo as a building material (2002), University of Aachen, Germany
4. Bhalla, S., Gupta, S., Puttaguna, S. and Suresh, R. (2008), “Bamboo as
Green Alternative to Concrete and Steel for Modern Structures”, Journal
of Environmental Research and Development, Vol. 3, No. 2, pp. 362-370.
5. Davis, T. 2011, "Geodesic Dome",
6. DeBoer, D., Bareis, K., “Bamboo building and culture- the architecture
of Simon Velez”, architect, Bogota, Colombia.
7. Fateh, M. (1931), “The bamboo forest of Hoshiarpur District Punjab”,
Indian Forester, No.26, pp. 491-510.
8. Gielis, J., (2002), “Future possibilities for bamboo in European
agriculture - Oprins Plant Sint-Lenaartsesteenweg”, 91 B-2310
Rijkevorsel.
9. Ghavami, K. (2005), “Cement and Concrete Composites”, Volume 27,
Issue 6, Pages 637- 649.
10. Hearn, E.J. (1997), “Mechanics of materials - An introduction to the
mechanics of elastic and plastic deformation of solids and structural
materials” (third edition). University of Warwick, U.K. Butterworth,
Heinemann.
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