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Shape Memory NiTi-Nb Alloys for Seismic-Resilient Beam-Column Connections in Steel Moment Frames

Yunfeng Zhang , Reginald DesRoches , Canxing Qiu
Published: 2026-05-18 DOI: doi.org/10.55001/jams.v1i3.75 https://doi.org/10.55001/jams.v1i3.75 Vol. 1 No. 3 (2026)
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Abstract

Conventional steel beam-column connections in moment-resisting frames suffer permanent deformation after major earthquakes, often requiring costly replacement. This paper presents a novel self-centering connection using superelastic NiTi-Nb shape memory alloy (SMA) bolts that can recover up to 6% strain upon unloading. Quasi-static cyclic tests on full-scale W24×68 beam-to-W14×176 column connections demonstrate near-zero residual drift (< 0.15% at 4% peak story drift) and stable energy dissipation over 30 fully-reversed cycles. Computational modeling using calibrated SMA constitutive laws is validated against experimental results, enabling parametric studies for codifiable design recommendations.

Author Biographies

  • Yunfeng Zhang Department of Civil Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
    Yunfeng Zhang is an assistant professor at Department of Civil Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China. Their research focuses on biomedical engineering, with over 58 publications in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Reginald DesRoches School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
    Reginald DesRoches is an associate professor at School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA. Their research focuses on advanced materials, with over 64 publications in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Canxing Qiu Department of Civil Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
    Canxing Qiu is an associate professor at Department of Civil Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China. Their research focuses on environmental engineering, with over 48 publications in peer-reviewed journals.
JAMS Vol. 1, No. 3, 2026
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Authors

  • Yunfeng Zhang Department of Civil Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
  • Reginald DesRoches School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
  • Canxing Qiu Department of Civil Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China

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