Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: With advancements in materials and technology, the field of civil engineering has witnessed the introduction of numerous innovative materials that address the challenges of deteriorating infrastructure. Among these, smart materials have emerged as a promising solution that warrants extensive research and application. These materials exhibit unique properties due to their two distinct crystal structures, Austenite and Martensite, which vary with temperature. Unlike conventional steels, smart materials possess two remarkable characteristics: shape memory and super-elasticity, making them highly suitable for diverse civil engineering applications such as prestressing bars, self-rehabilitation mechanisms, and two-way actuators. The primary objective of this research is to explore the potential applications of smart materials in civil engineering by conducting an extensive literature review, gathering fundamental information, and analyzing their basic mechanical properties. Through axial tension tests, the force-extension and stress-strain curves of shape memory and superelastic materials were separately measured, providing crucial validation of previous research findings. Additionally, four beam experiments were carried out to assess the flexural performance of beams reinforced with superelastic materials. Parameters such as the load-displacement relationship at midspan, surface strains on the concrete beam, and crack width under varying loads were systematically recorded and analyzed. While this study serves as an initial step in evaluating the viability of smart materials in structural engineering, further largescale experiments involving bigger beams are planned to deepen the understanding of their behavior and potential implementation in real-world structures.
Author: Mr. Mayursingh Kubersingh Gautam
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4410641972