Re-examination of the effect of NbC precipitation on shape memory in Fe–Mn–Si-based alloys

Current literature pertaining to the shape memory effect in the Fe–Mn–Si-based system is critically discussed. It is argued that the enhanced shape memory previously attributed to NbC precipitation is mainly due to the associated thermo-mechanical treatments. It is concluded that the thermo-mechanical processing of the alloy is the dominant factor that determines the shape memory effect in this alloy system.