DSC study of the reverse martensitic transformation in prestrained TiNi shape memory alloy in different composites

The reverse martensitic transformation characteristics of prestrained TiNi shape memory alloy (SMA) fibers embedded in metal, polymer and cement compo site matrixes were studied by the differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) m easurements. There is a hard constraint between Al and cement matrixes and the embedded TiNi fiber, leading to a widened transformation span with a sl ow transformation rate by the martensite redeformation. process, but the ce ment composite cannot sustain at a high temperature due to the poor interfa cial bond. The constraint of the resin matrix is a weak one because of its vitrification behavior, leading to a relatively easy transformation, althou gh there is a good interfacial bond. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rig hts reserved.