Transforming Materials

Shape memory and superelastic titanium alloys represent a unique class of functional materials capable of recovering large strains through stress- or temperature-induced phase transformations. These materials offer significant potential for aerospace, biomedical and actuator applications where conventional alloys cannot meet the demanding requirements for both structural integrity and functional response. However, the complexity of the martensitic transformations and their interaction with applied and residual stress presents significant challenges for reliable design. Our research focuses on understanding the fundamental mechanisms governing these transformations in detail, including the deformation sequences that occur during loading and the functional fatigue behaviour that limits component lifetime. This work includes NiTi based systems and Ni-free alternatives.