Modelling of ECC and SMA-Reinforced Concrete Members

Changes in codes which emphasize performance-based design have increased interest in the use of novel high-performance materials such as Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) and Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC). This work looks to model the response of ECC at both small-and large-scale sizes based on experimental data of ECC flexural prisms and shear walls reinforced with ECC. Modelling was conducted using VecTor2, a FEA modelling program widely applied in literature and industry. The applicability of built-in models for fibre-reinforced concrete (FRC), a concrete classification that includes ECC, was examined at a small scale. Lessons learned were applied in large scale modelling of hybrid SMA-steel slender shear walls in original condition and repaired with ECC. Results of small- and large-scale modelling demonstrated the need for further refinement of FRC models to better reflect ECC and allowed for a modelling methodology that provided more accurate load and ductility predictions in examined shear walls.