Adaptivity of shape memory alloys for use in adaptive materials

Abstract

This paper would like to draw the attention to the possibilities of tuning shape memory alloys for optimal use in smart materials. The importance of processing, transformation temperatures, hysteresis, texture is discussed. Finally, it is explained how the microstructure, by means of the presence of precipitates, can lead to dramatic but interesting changes in the E- modulus behavior during the martensitic transformation.