Relationship Between Shape Memory Material Properties and Applications

Abstract

The shape memory effect has been observed in several material systems : metals, ceramics and polymers. Mainly metallic systems in which a strain-induced or thermally-induced martensitic transformation occurs, have been explored. Also, recent discoveries have shown that shape memory effects in specific systems can also be driven by changes in hydrostatic pressure or magnetic fields. This indicates that not all effects related to the martensitic transformation have been explored yet for use in application. But even in classic systems designers are challenged to better analyse what functions the material properties can really bring about in applications such as actuators, smart materials or medical devices.