Microstructure and Shape Memory Effect of Cu-Zn-Ni Shape Memory Alloys

Abstract

The microstructure, martensitic transformation behavior and shape memory effect of Cu-Zn-Ni shape memory alloy have been studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy (OM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results show that the recrystallization occurs in the hot-rolled Cu-Zn-Ni alloy by annealing at 800˚C and alloy is primarily composed of martensite. A reverse martensite transformation temperature higher than 100˚C upon heating has been de-tected. The alloys exhibit good ductility and shape memory effect (SME). The results obtained are discussed in detail.