Improvements in the mechanical properties of the 18R ↔ 6R high-hysteresis martensitic transformation by nanoprecipitates in CuZnAl alloys

► Mechanical properties of 6R martensite in CuZnAl are improved by nanoprecipitates. ► Plastic deformation of 6R martensite is suppressed during 18R-6R transition. ► 20% recoverable strain is obtained in full β-18R-6R transition in single crystals. ► 10% recoverable strain is obtained in 18R-6R transition with 150 MPa hysteresis. ► The material could be used in mechanical damping or other applications.