Experimental characterization of shape memory alloys

Abstract

In this chapter, we examine the techniques used for characterizing alloy properties. This discussion is useful for a better understanding of material behavior as well as for proper exploitation of the material properties for specific engineering applications and practical implementations. Proper determination of transformation temperatures by calorimetric analysis is the preliminary characterization test that has to be performed on the alloys. On the basis of calorimetric results, additional investigations, such as thermomechanical tests, can be set up. These tests are of fundamental importance for the use of alloys in structural or actuation devices, because-for any kind of application-a quantitative knowledge of material properties is required.