Growing economies and increasing population has resulted in heightened demand for infrastructure globally. However much of the developing world cannot produce steel locally for use in construction. Bamboo is fast growing, strong and sustainable. This study explores the feasibility of using bamboo as reinforcement in structural concrete. The paper firstly reviews existing research into bamboo-reinforced concrete, making comparisons between the properties of bamboo and steel, and identifying practical considerations related to their use in construction. The paper also details an experimental investigation in which a series of bamboo-reinforced concrete slabs were tested in flexure. The paper provides evidence as to how bamboo-reinforced concrete elements perform, making comparisons with conventional steel-reinforced slabs, and exploring the benefits of treating bamboo reinforcement for waterproofing and improved bonding with concrete. Finally, the paper comments on the feasibility of replacing steel reinforcement with bamboo.

James grew up in Ealing in West London. At the age of 18 he began a four year Civil & Structural Engineering degree at the University of Sheffield. This dissertation was submitted as part of his MEng degree, for which he was awarded a 1st class (with Honours). James now works as a Structural Engineer for Arup in London.