Shape memory effect and compositional dependence of Zr-Cu binary and Zr-Cu-Al ternary alloys

Abstract

The intermetallic compound ZrCu experiences a transformation from a parent phase into a martensitic phase with rapid cooling. ZrCu possesses considerable promise as a high-temperature shape memory alloy. In the present study, the shape memory effects of ZrCu, which was formed in a Zr-Cu-Al ternary alloy, was investigated. The Zr-Cu binary and Zr-Cu-Al ternary alloys with different alloy compositions were prepared. The crystalline structure, martensitic transformation temperature and macroscopic shape recovery behavior of these alloys were evaluated by means of X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and compressive tests; the crystalline structure of the ZrCu in Zr-Cu-Al alloys varies with increasing Al concentration. In addition, it was confirmed that both the Zr-Cu binary and Zr-Cu-Al ternary alloys possess shape memory effects. Furthermore, it was found that the macroscopic shape recovery temperatures of these alloys decrease with increasing Al concentration.