| Summary: | The utilisation of iron-based Shape Memory Alloy (Fe-SMA) to enhance the structural integrity of existing buildings and infrastructure has gained momentum in recent years. Prestressing forces induced by the shape memory effect of this smart material could be used to improve the behaviour of the structures. However, knowledge about this strengthening method is still limited, and more research is needed. This study explores the capability of reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened with Fe-SMA rebar through a numerical approach utilising ABAQUS. Past literature results were employed to verify the proposed finite element (FE) model in this study. The validated FE model was then used to identify the effects of Fe-SMA prestressing on the flexure performance of the RC beam. It is noted that the Fe-SMA strengthening improved the load-carrying capacities in the range of 14% and 47% of the RC beam. The application of Fe-SMA rebars can reduce the retrofitting cost effectively and improve the RC beam’s flexural strength. © 2023, Semarak Ilmu Publishing. All rights reserved.
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