Characterization and modeling of creep behavior of glued laminated bamboo

Abstract The benefits of using glued laminated bamboo (GLB) as a structural material are numerous, such as its low weight, high specific strength, and low carbon footprint. However, as a viscoelastic material, GLB materials exhibit creep, which is a significant characteristic that needs to be considered. To ensure the safety and serviceability of structures that utilize GLB, it is essential to accurately estimate the long‐term performance of GLB composites under external forces. This paper reports on an experimental investigation into the creep characteristics of GLB under tensile and compressive loads. The experiments were conducted at various load levels for a period of 500 h under a controlled environmental condition. The Burgers model and the five‐parameter model were used to characterize creep behavior and predict the long‐term deformation by extrapolating beyond the experimental period. The long‐term deformation of the GLB may be overestimated by the Burgers model due to its constant creep rate for the viscous component. In contrast, the five‐parameter model introduces a modification factor that results in a nonlinear viscous component, allowing a more accurate fit and a reasonable deformation estimate. Highlights Creep characteristics of GLB were studied under tensile and compressive loads. Burgers and five‐parameter models were used to describe the creep behavior. Extrapolation of Burgers model overestimates the creep deformation of GLB. Five‐parameter model provides reasonable deformation estimate for GLB.