Incorporation of Nitinol (NiTi) Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) in Concrete: A Review

Incorporating Nitinol (NiTi) shape memory alloy (SMA) into concrete structures has gained significant attention in recent years due to its ability to enhance the properties of concrete. This review paper illustrates the history of NiTi SMA and its use in various civil engineering structural applications. A detailed analysis of the existing literature and case studies offers perspectives on the possible applications, benefits, and prospects of utilizing NiTi SMA to reinforce and strengthen elements in concrete structures. The study examined publications on the internal usage of NiTi SMA in concrete and cement-based matrices as an embedded element, including fibers, bars, cables, wires, powder, and strands. In addition, superelastic and shape memory forms of NiTi were considered. It was concluded that the superelasticity of NiTi aided in energy dissipation from impact or seismic events. It also improved the re-centering performance and deformation capacity and reduced residual stresses, strains, and cracks. Conversely, the SMA effect of NiTi helped bridge cracks, recover the original shape, and induced prestressing forces under thermal activation.