Evaluation of Fe-based shape memory alloy (Fe-SMA) as strengthening material for reinforced concrete structures

Abstract

This paper aims to evaluate potential of an Fe-based shape memory alloy (Fe-SMA) for strengthening civil structures. Mechanical properties of the Fe-SMA were investigated with a direct tensile test, which showed the stress-induced transformation, stress at fracture of the Fe-SMA, and modulus of elasticity. Heating temperature ranging from 110 °C to 220 °C and pre-straining level ranging from 2% to 8% of the Fe-SMA were considered as variables to provoke a shape memory effect (SME), which generates a recovery stress. The recovery stresses ranged from 207.59 MPa to 438.61 MPa, which plays a role in introducing a pre-stressing force to concrete members. Bonding behavior of the Fe-SMA embedded into a groove with a cement-based mortar filler was investigated to determine the required bonding length to fully develop the pre-stressing force of the Fe-SMA with a near-surface mounted (NSM) strengthening technique. All the tested specimens showed slippage failure and suggested a minimum bonding length of 600 mm. The pre-stressing force applied on the concrete can be calculated with the recovery stress of the Fe-SMA. Based on those test results, the Fe-SMA shows sufficient potential to be used as strengthening material for civil structures.