The effect of shape memory alloys on the ductility of exterior reinforced concrete beam-column joints using the damage plasticity model

Abstract

Using shape memory alloys (SMA) bars can significantly enhance the ductility of exterior reinforced concrete joints, where they can replace the conventional steel reinforcement. This research focuses on studying the effect of using SMA on the ductility capacity of exterior reinforced concrete beam-column joints at different column axial load levels. Finite element analysis was carried out and compared with the experimental results from the literature for verification purposes, and both were compared with theoretical solutions. The results show that the use of SMA bars can improve the ductility of reinforced concrete joints noticeably, without losing load capacity. The finite element method was successful in capturing the large strain and superelastic behavior of SMA bars.