Analysis of Flexural and Impact Strength of Woven Bamboo as a Substitute Material for Boat Hull Structures

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the mechanical properties of woven bamboo composites as a candidate material for replacing boat hulls. Bamboo was selected for its lightweight nature, relatively high strength, good elasticity, and environmentally friendly, renewable properties. The research method employed was laboratory experimentation conducted at the Mechanical Engineering Laboratory of Abulyatama University and the Laboratory of Lhokseumawe State Polytechnic through flexural and impact testing. The specimens were made from woven bamboo with a strip thickness of 10 mm, bonded with resin, and coated with fibreglass. The tests were conducted based on ASTM D790 standards for flexural testing and ASTM D256 standards for impact testing. This research was carried out from December 10, 2025, to January 14, 2026. The flexural test results showed that specimen B1 had the highest load-bearing capacity of 240.21 Kgf, with a maximum stress of 10.45 Kgf/mm² and a strain of 1.79%. The average maximum load of all specimens was 133.24 Kgf with an average strain of 5.13%. In the impact test, specimens A4 and A5 absorbed 12 Joules of energy, which is higher than the 10 Joules absorbed by specimens A1, A2, and A3. Overall, the results indicate that woven bamboo composites have good potential as an alternative material for boat hulls due to their lightweight characteristics, adequate strength, and support for environmental sustainability.