Characterization of polylactide layer deposited on Ni-Ti shape memory alloy

Abstract

Polylactide (PLA) thin layer was deposited on the surface of the as-quenched NiTi shape memory alloy. First, NiTi alloy was quenched from the 850°C, then its surface was covered with PLA. Deposited PLA is in an amorphous state, whereas the as-quenched NiTi alloy stays in the B2 structure. PLA deposition caused smoothing of the surface and changed its hydrophilic character to hydrophobic one. In general, procedure of PLA deposition does not influence the course of the reversible martensitic transformation. After deformation of NiTi sample covered with PLA up to 4%, its surface does not reveal any cracks and still remains continuous. © 2014 The Author(s).