Flexural performance of strain-hardening cementitious composite joints with bio-inspired jigsaw-shaped interlocking suture interfaces

Bio-inspired interlocking sutures, inspired by the diabolical ironclad beetle, exhibit tunable mechanical behavior and are strong candidates for designing structures with enhanced mechanical properties. These interlocking sutures maintain strong flexural strength, absorb energy, and exhibit toughening and abnormal deformation mechanisms. Inspired by the bio-inspired interlocking suture, we designed specimens of Strain-Hardening Cementitious Composite (SHCC) with sutures of various geometries. The effects of interlocking sutures on mechanical and failure characteristics were studied via flexural performance tests. The toughening and abnormal deformation mechanisms of jigsaw-shaped interlocking suture joints were explored. A balance has been discovered between toughness, flexural strength, and energy absorption, allowing for optimal utilization of the performance of the bio-inspired suture joint. The optimal interlocking angle α and a : b ratio for bio-inspired suture joints were developed, achieving 9.24 times greater bearing capacity and 219.3 times greater energy absorption than conventional linear joints. These captivating findings present significant opportunities for revolutionizing the design of bio-inspired jigsaw-shaped interlocking sutures, positioning them as a promising joining technology for concrete structures.