11.65: An axial type self‐centering energy dissipation device with shape memory alloy for seismic mitigation

Abstract

ABSTRACTServe earthquake often cause large deformation to structures which might deteriorated or degraded seismic performance level. Installing shape memory alloy (SMA) dampers to the structure is one of the most effective approaches to mitigate earthquake disasters. The mechanical behaviour of superelastic Ni‐Ti shape memory alloy wire is tested and a multi‐linear constitutive model which appropriately describes and elucidates the mechanical property and material characteristics is obtained by simplifying the hysteretic response. A new axial type SMA damper with energy dissipation and self‐centering property is proposed. The structure, the design method, the working principle and the model of the recovery force are introduced. The energy dissipation capacity and the self‐centering property are examined by low cyclic loading processes. Both the two properties reach an excellent effect. The result indicate that SMA has a great potential to be used in structures to mitigate seismic displacement response and improve the self‐centering performance of structures.