Design of an electric activation system for the smart hybrid tendons crack-closure system in concrete beams

Balzano, Brunella ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7868-8835, Sharifi, Shahram, Sweeney, John, Thompson, Glen, De Nardi, Cristina and Jefferson, Anthony ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2050-2521 2024. Design of an electric activation system for the smart hybrid tendons crack-closure system in concrete beams. Developments in the Built Environment 18 , 100446. 10.1016/j.dibe.2024.100446

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Abstract

This work presents the design of a smart activation system for the crack-closure technology of the Hybrid Tendons. Previous research has demonstrated the effectiveness of this technology in providing a self-repairing mechanism for concrete elements. The Hybrid Tendons are made combining a pre-stressed Kevlar inner core restrained by a Shape Memory Polymer sleeve. To trigger the crack-closing action, the Shape memory potential of the outer sleeve needs to be activated via heating. The work focuses on the design and testing of an electric activation system for the Hybrid Tendons using a system of heating wires. Kanthal wires are chosen for this application and integrated in the manufacturing process of the Hybrid Tendons: the wires are wrapped around each tendon and connected to a power supply. An experimental campaign is conducted to assess the system’s capability to activate the Hybrid Tendons and deliver the crack-closing action in concrete beams under constant load. Additionally a numerical model is also developed to offer a sound interpretation of the experimental results. The system is ultimately proven successful in activating the Hybrid Tendons embedded in the concrete, effectively delivering the crack-closing action and boosting the flexural response of the structural element.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	Published
Schools:	Architecture Engineering
Publisher:	Elsevier
ISSN:	2666-1659
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	31 May 2024
Date of Acceptance:	23 April 2024
Last Modified:	31 May 2024 09:15
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/169089

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