Dynamic response of a Single-Degree-of-Freedom system containing Phase Transforming Cellular Materials

Repeatable superelastic behavior is a much sought after attribute in the field of earthquake engineering. Phase Transforming Cellular Materials (PXCMs) are architected materials that exhibit superelastic force–deformation behavior. PXCMs can be designed to exhibit nearly perfect elasto-plastic behavior, meaning they can undergo large deformations at nearly constant force. Moreover, PXCMs can return to their original configuration without permanent deformation on removal of the external load. The viability of integrating PXCMs in Seismic Force Resisting Systems (SFRS) of structures was investigated through dynamic testing of a simple Single-Degree-of-Freedom (SDOF) PXCM system. The response of the SDOF PXCM system was also compared with the response of systems constructed using traditional materials such as reinforced concrete. The tests and comparisons showed that 1) PXCMs are capable of exhibiting nonlinear behavior without accumulating damage when subjected to dynamic loads, and 2) PXCM systems are likely to displace less than similar systems constructed using traditional materials. Hence, it was concluded that PXCMs can supplement existing building materials to enhance the overall seismic performance of a structure.