Stresses related to the shape memory effect in Fe-Mn-Si-based shape memory alloys

The shape memory behaviour of two Fe-Mn-Si-based alloys has been investigated. Two compositions were studied, i.e. Fe29Mn7Si and Fe29Mn7Si5Cr (numbers indicate mass%). Characterizations of the martensitic transformation and the different structural constituents were performed using optical microscopy and X-ray diffraction methods. Transformation temperatures were determined by thermodilatometry on undeformed and deformed samples. The shape recovery was quantified by means of bending tests and dilatometry experiments on compressed samples. A procedure was designed to measure the recovery stresses caused by the dimensional changes of the sample due to the shape memory effect. The recovery stress is defined as the stress that is generated when the recovery of deformation is impeded under constraint. The mechanical results are discussed on the basis of the underlying transformation and deformation processes.