Seismic performance evaluation of a structure retrofitted using steel slit dampers with shape memory alloy bars

In this paper, a hybrid slit- shape memory alloy (SMA) energy dissipation device is devised by attaching a SMA bar to each face of a steel slit plate. An analysis model of a SMA bar with super elastic capability is developed using various link elements, and the accuracy of the analysis model is verified by comparing with finite element analysis results. The seismic performance of the hybrid slit damper is verified by incorporating them in seven-story steel structure. The nonlinear dynamic analysis results of the model structure subjected to seven earthquake ground motions show that the addition of SMA bars in slit damper results in significant reduction both in the maximum and the residual deformation compared to those of the structure installed with typical steel slit dampers.