Comparison of mechanical performance uncertainties for sustainable high-performance bamboo/wood composites

Sustainable building materials play a vital role in achieving carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals. Comprehensive knowledge is required to fully understand the development status of sustainable building materials, particularly those made from bamboo or wood fiber, and their advantages in terms of mechanical performance and uncertainties compared to natural wood. The development status of sustainable high-performance bamboo/wood composites (SHBWC) is summarized, and a comparative analysis is conducted on the physical and mechanical performance as well as uncertainties of typical SHBWC compared to natural Merbau, which has extreme density. The findings indicate that the high demand for roundwood is exerting pressure on forest resources, leading to a certain extent of scarcity. Among the various SHBWC, bamboo scrimber (including BSM and BSS), wood scrimber (WS), and laminate bamboo lumber (LBL) are identified as most commonly used. These materials have varying densities, with BSM, BSS, WS, LBL, and Merbau following a descending order. BSS material demonstrates superior tensile and bending strength, measuring at 255.47 MPa and 233.12 MPa, respectively, with a modulus of 25.23 GPa, surpassing other materials. SHBWC show enhanced mechanical properties, uncertainties, dense microscopic characteristics, and a shorter sustainable supply cycle than natural hardwood. However, the mechanical performance of the SHBWC tested in this study could be further improved by reducing gaps in their microstructures. Overall, SHBWC offer a viable alternative to natural high-quality wood in construction applications.