Many existing concrete buildings worldwide require improvement in structural integrity. Previous research has proven the effectiveness of iron-based shape memory alloy (Fe-SMA or memory-steel) reinforcements for the prestressed strengthening of structures. The unique function of the material, i.e., the so-called shape memory effect, enables cost-effectiveness and presents simple ways to prestress defective building components. Ribbed memory-steel bars have only been available recently. This study aimed to investigate their performance in a novel strengthening technique, named near-surface mounted (NSM) method. Bond experiments with short bond lengths were performed to investigate the feasibility of this configuration and to identify the effects of several design parameters including: groove dimensions, bar diameter, bar material, cover depth, mortar strength, and concrete strength. The use of a digital image correlation system enabled detailed measurements of slips, crack width, and surface strain.
An analytical procedure based on the differential equation of bond behaviour was developed, which enabled the calculation of slip, strain, bond shear stress, and load capacity. The results show that ribbed memory-steel bars can be used in an NSM configuration due to high bond capacity. The cover depth, substrate strength and elastic modulus had a significant effect on the failure mode and bond capacity.
