Pore control in SMA NiTi scaffolds via space holder usage

► Pore geometry of SMA scaffold was controlled by space-holder sintering of elements. ► Spacer to metal ratio of 1.43 resulted in open pores having 200 to 500 μm diameter. ► Porous NiTi produced had superelastic-thermoelastic combined strains of up to 7%. ► Homogeneity was greater in SMA samples made with urea than with NaCl.