ABSTRACT
Strengthening concrete columns through confinement techniques is commonly used to enhance the structural performance of the concrete. Recently, an innovative strengthening technique that utilizes smart materials termed Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) have been introduced. The SMA possesses unique characteristic properties that lie in their ability to undergo large deformations and return back to their original shape through stress removal or heating. This paper aimed to investigate the use of SMA in the form of wires to actively confine the concrete columns. The preliminary investigation included characterizing the material properties of the SMA wire relevant to the confinement application. In this case, namely the tensile properties and the recovery stress test was conducted. The experimental testing conducted to determine appropriate splicing connection for the SMA wire was also presented. Finally, a preliminary experimental study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of utilizing SMA wires to actively confine the concrete columns.
