Modulated Martensite: Why it forms and why it deforms easily

Diffusionless phase transitions are at the core of the multifunctionality of (magnetic) shape memory alloys, ferroelectrics and multiferroics. Giant strain effects under external fields are obtained in low symmetric modulated martensitic phases. We outline the origin of modulated phases, their connection with tetragonal martensite and consequences for their functional properties by analysing the martensitic microstructure of epitaxial Ni-Mn-Ga films from the atomic to macroscale. Geometrical constraints at an austenite-martensite phase boundary act down to the atomic scale. Hence a martensitic microstructure of nanotwinned tetragonal martensite can form. Coarsening of twin variants can reduce twin boundary energy, a process we could follow from the atomic to the millimetre scale. Coarsening is a fractal process, proceeding in discrete steps by doubling twin periodicity. The collective defect energy results in a substantial hysteresis, which allows retaining modulated martensite as a metastable phase at room temperature. In this metastable state elastic energy is released by the formation of a 'twins within twins' microstructure which can be observed from the nanometre to millimetre scale. This hierarchical twinning results in mesoscopic twin boundaries which are diffuse, in contrast to the common atomically sharp twin boundaries of tetragonal martensite. We suggest that observed extraordinarily high mobility of such mesoscopic twin boundaries originates from their diffuse nature which renders pinning by atomistic point defects ineffective.Comment: 34 pages, 8 figure

Grippers for the Micro Assembly Containing Shape Memory Actuators and Sensors

Shape memory alloys (SMA) show a high ratio of work capacity per material volume. This makes the application of SMA especially useful in micron-sized systems. The development of robotic grippers is one important prerequisite for the successful automation of the assembly of micro systems. Therefore the SMA may also play a role, for example, as actuators in micron-sized grippers. This paper presents the development of micron-sized grippers. Due to a special relation between the electrical resistance and the shape change of a NiTi-wire the actuator may also be used simultaneously as a sensor. Besides these functional properties a superelastic SMA may be used for structural purposes, i.e. as solid-state flexure hinges. The sensoric features of binary and ternary NiTi-based alloys are investigated using different Ti50Ni50-xCux alloys with 0 < x < 25 at-%. Besides the chemical composition the functional properties are affected by the thermo-mechanical treatment (TMT). Different TMT of Ti50Ni50-xCux alloys and their influence on the functional properties are compared. The effect of the TMT on the amount and the stability of the shape memory effect has to be taken into account if the optimum alloy and condition for the use in grippers for micro assembly are investigated. The function and the properties of the developped gripping devices are demonstrated by prototypes