Behavior of Lightweight Wood-Frame Shear Walls with Plybamboo and Wood Sheathing Panels: Experimental Study, Numerical Simulation, and Parametric Models for the Design Process

Abstract

This study investigates the lateral loading performance of lightweight wood-frame shear walls with bamboo or wood sheathing panels, exploring the potential of sustainable materials in construction. Firstly, the monotonic and cyclic experimental tests were carried out, focusing on four types of shear walls measuring 1.22 and 2.44 m in length, with 9 mm glued laminated bamboo (plybamboo) and oriented strand board (OSB) sheathing panels. Secondly, empirical formulas were derived to identify critical points on the simplified models representing the monotonic curves of the shear walls, including the yield, peak, and ultimate points, based on test results of nails only. Thirdly, this study establishes a simplified numerical model using OpenSeesPy to simulate the cyclic behavior of the shear walls. To address the limitations of traditional parameter calibration methods, this study employs intelligent model parameter identification techniques based on genetic algorithm, fast deterministic neural networks, and the updated genetic algorithm. Finally, an efficient parameter adjustment method for unexamined shear wall cases was established, enhancing the models' predictability and practical values in design. In summary, it provides a foundation for a universal parametric method to advance the application of lightweight wood-frame shear walls.