Field Trial of Shape Memory-Based Rehabilitation System

摘要

This project demonstrated the field application of a bridge rehabilitationtechnology based on shape memory superelastic alloys. Shape memory alloys based on Fe and Ni-Ti were evaluated for application to concrete structures. The Fe-based alloy was found to be most cost effective. Tests on scaled models of reinforced concrete beams established the feasibility of rehabilitating damaged concrete structures with Fe-based shape memory alloy. The procedure used simple electrical resistance heating for applying corrective post-tensioning forces to the structure. A highway bridge was identified for field testing of the technology. Following a large-scale laboratory evaluation and verification, the technology was demonstrated on the selected highway bridge that involved post-tensioning of a cracked reinforced concrete bridge girder with shape memory rods. Filed monitoring of the rehabilitated structure will continue to determine the effectiveness of the technology in the field.