Research Progress and Applications of Fe-Mn-Si-Based Shape Memory Alloys on Reinforcing Steel and Concrete Bridges

Abstract

In civil engineering, beam structures such as bridges require reinforcement to increase load-bearing capacity and extend service life due to damage, aging, and capacity degradation under long-time services and disasters. The utilization of Fe-based shape memory alloys (Fe-SMA) to reinforce structures has been proven efficient and reliable, and the recovery stress of activated Fe-SMA can satisfy the reinforcement requirements. This article overviews the material characteristics and mechanical properties of Fe-SMA. Furthermore, the principle of thermal activation for reinforcing beams using Fe-SMA is described. On this basis, the joining methods between Fe-SMA members and reinforced components are reviewed, and the existing reinforcement research and applications are analyzed for steel and concrete beams. Finally, given the current shortcomings, this paper puts forward the perspectives that need to be studied to promote Fe-SMA’s reinforcement application in civil engineering.

Keywords

• Fe-based shape memory alloys
• shape memory effect
• activation recovery characteristics
• structural reinforcement
• mechanical performance improvement