Synthesis and Characterization of Cu-Al-Be-Mn Quaternary Shape Memory Alloys Prepared by Induction Melting Technique

Abstract

Shape memory materials are stimuli-responsive materials. They are widely used in military, medical, safety, and robotics applications. Until recently, only Ni-Ti based SMA’s are commercially used due to its relatively ease of manufacturing. However, the exorbitantly high cost of Ni-Ti based SMA limits its application to niche markets such as medical stents, aerospace and defence. Recently, it is found that Cu based alloys exhibit shape memory behavior. Out of which, Cu-Al-Be-Mn is most interesting SMA in terms of less process complexity and low cost. Cu–Al–Be-Mn shape memory alloys in the range of 09–15 wt.% of aluminium and 0.1-0.4 wt.% of Beryllium and 0.1 to 0.3 wt.% of Manganese, exhibiting β-phase at high temperatures and manifesting shape memory effect upon quenching to lower temperatures, were prepared through ingot metallurgy. The alloy ingots were homogenized followed by step quenching so as to obtain a structure that is completely martensitic. They were subsequently characterized by X-ray diffractogram (XRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Optical Microscope (OM). The shape memory properties of the alloys were studied by bend test. This paper emphasizes the synthesis and characterization of the Cu-Al-Be shape memory alloys.