Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis (NLFEA) of Pre-stressed RC Beams Reinforced with Iron-Based Shape Memory Alloy (Fe-SMA)

Iron-based shape memory alloy (Fe-SMA) holds great potential for strengthening and repairing aged reinforced concrete (RC) elements. In this research study, the application of utilizing Fe-SMA reinforcement rebars in prestressed RC beams is emphasized. The main purpose of this study is to simulate the influence of utilizing Fe-SMA rebars on the structural behavior of prestressed RC using finite element modeling (FEM). The results from nonlinear finite element analysis are validated with experimental data from previous studies. These studies were conducted to evaluate the influence of utilizing the Fe-SMA on the strength and serviceability of several prestressed RC beams that were tested with different rebar configurations through flexural tests. The developed models, in this study, showed excellent agreements with the previous experimental data and models.