From experimental testing to computational modeling: A review of shape memory alloy fiber-reinforced concrete composites

Abstract

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) have unique characteristics, such as the shape memory effect, which allows them to recover their initial shape after being deformed when stimulated, and pseudoelasticity, which enables them to accommodate large deformation without residual strains after being unloaded. SMAs may be used as short fibers in fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) composites to pre-stress, heal fractures, and re-center themselves. As a result, SMA-FRC is a potential alternative to conventional construction materials in a wide range of applications. SMA-FRC composite application and modeling may present challenges, such as computational modeling complexities, practical constraints regarding fiber volume fraction, fiber-to-concrete adhesion strength, and the complex temperature-based activation of SMA fibers embedded in concrete. Despite these challenges and difficulties, significant work toward resolution is being made, making SMA-FRC an innovative technology with many potential research and development alternatives. This article presents an overview of experimental testing, computational methods, limitations, and future research potential for SMA-FRC composite materials. The study also looks at practical applications of SMA fibers in concrete composites including beam–column junctions, pre-stressing, and self-healing, as well as major developments and implications. The advantages and limits of several computational strategies for studying SMA-FRCs are discussed. The research suggests multiscale modeling as an effective approach for analyzing SMA-FRC, and a unique example of SMA-FRC multiscale modeling is briefly demonstrated. In conclusion, this research emphasizes the significant potential of SMA-FRC composites as novel construction materials with prospective practical applications, as well as the importance of multiscale modeling in SMA-FRC computational modeling.