Confining jackets for concrete cylinders using NiTiNb and NiTi shape memory alloy wires

Abstract

This study used prestrained NiTiNb and NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) wires to confine concrete cylinders. The recovery stress of the wires was measured with respect to the maximal prestrain of the wires. SMA wires were preelongated during the manufacturing process and then wrapped around concrete cylinders of 150mmx300mm (phi x L). Unconfined concrete cylinders were tested for compressive strength and the results were compared to those of cylinders confined by SMA wires. NiTiNb SMA wires increased the compressive strength and ductility of the cylinders due to the confining effect. NiTiNb wires were found to be more effective in increasing the peak strength of the cylinders and dissipating energy than NiTi wires. This study showed the potential of the proposed method to retrofit reinforced concrete columns using SMA wires to protect them from earthquakes.