Self–Actuating SMA–HPFRC Fuses for Auto–Adaptive Composite Structures

Existing experimental results clearly demonstrate that the structural use of conventional, that is, "passive," high–performance fiber reinforced concretes (HPFRCs) results in excellent seismic performance. By combining shape memory alloy (SMA) fibers with conventional HPFRCs, self–actuating HPFRCs were recently developed. This paper explores a novel way of using such self–actuating SMA–based HPFRCs to develop more seismically resistant and cost–effective, auto–adaptive frame buildings. A numerical investigation on the use of self–actuating HPFRCs in highly energy absorbing, replaceable, "fuse" zones is presented first. Resulting SMA–HPFRC "fuses" can adjust their response to the level of seismic overload. A brief discussion of the possible use of such self–actuating "fuses" in auto–adaptive structures is also provided. While in an actual auto–adaptive structure "triggering" of the desired self–actuating HPFRC fuse behavior will require the use of "sensing" and control elements, this paper focuses only on the behavior of SMA–HPFRC fuses and their effect on the overall structural response.