Shape memory alloys effects on the multi-story structures under extreme loading conditions

Abstract

The use of intelligent materials with particular behavioral traits has grown significantly in recent years. The most common materials that may revert to their original shape after deformation due to stress or heat change are shape memory alloys (SMAs). Shape memory alloy (SMA) differs from conventional materials due to its shape memory property and hyperplastic nature. This research aims to explore the use of SMAs as a reinforcement to improve the performance of multi-story steel plate shear walls (SPSW) under explosive loading. The finite element (FE) software "ABAQUS" is utilized to simulate the models, and the results of the numerical modeling are validated against experimental research from the literature. The study investigates the impact of different parameters related to the explosion on the behavior of the reinforced multi story SPSW, including the amount of explosive material and the location of the explosion. The findings reveal that the minimum amount of explosive material required to cause rupture in a four-story SPSW reinforced by SMA, positioned at a distance of 1 m from the structure, is equivalent to 40 kg of TNT. Additionally, the minimum distance required for element rupture in the four-story SPSW, reinforced by SMA strips, is found to be 0.5 m. As the explosion height increases, the amount of out-of-plane base shear decreases. Furthermore, an interesting observation is that as the explosion height increases, the displacement of the infill plate also increases, leading to beam failure and, ultimately, infill plate failure. Niti SMA exhibited superior blast resistance compared to Iron-based SMA, showcasing its potential for enhancing structural resilience.