Shape Memory NiTi and NiTiCu Alloys Obtained by Spark Plasma Sintering Process

Abstract

The addition of Cu to near equiatomic NiTi shape memory alloys (SMAs) can provide some modifications of their shape memory properties by affecting their transformation behavior. The same effect was obtained in the case of Ni 3 Ti 2 and Ni 4 Ti 3 precipitates presence in the microstructure of NiTi. Also the substitution of Cu to NiTi alloys increases the hardness of the materials. This paper presents the microstructural and mechanical investigations of NiTi and NiTiCu alloys obtained by spark plasma sintering (SPS) process that represents a great potential for researchers as a new process for the fabrication of intermetallic compounds.