Joint performance in concrete beam-column connections reinforced using SMA smart material

Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) material offers an excellent alternative to conventional steel reinforcing bars in the design of smart self-centering structures. This is attributed to its ability to exhibit large deformations, yet sustain low permanent strain upon unloading. Research in the area of designing concrete connections reinforced using SMA bar is scarce. Joint performance and SMA anchorage represent two research areas that require further development. In this research, the performance of concrete joints reinforced using SMA bars anchored using screwlock steel anchors was examined experimentally and analytically to assess the effect of several design variables on the joint response: level of stirrup confinement, anchor position, and anchor orientation. Special screwlock anchors were used and modified in this study. Practical design recommendations with regard to the optimum joint detailing and SMA anchor specification were proposed.