Electron microscopy investigation of spark-eroded Ni–Mn–Ga ferromagnetic shape-memory alloy particles

The microstructural and chemical characteristics of Ni–Mn–Ga particles produced by spark-erosion using liquid argon or liquid nitrogen dielectrics were investigated by electron microscopy techniques. The particles were predominantly micron-sized spheres; those obtained in argon were solid, whereas those obtained in nitrogen were primarily hollow. The investigation of annealed particles revealed twinned microstructure and provided evidence supporting the cryogen solubility model of hollow particle formation, as well as possibly explaining the non-homogeneous structure of particles formed by spark-erosion in liquid nitrogen.