Nano-sized SiC particle reinforced NiTi alloy matrix shape memory composite

The near-equiatomic NiTi alloy matrix shape memory composite reinforced by nano-sized SiC particles was successfully fabricated using powder metallurgy/sintering process. A large number of randomly dispersed nano-sized SiC particles and the resultant several types of second-phase particles in the matrix of the NiTi shape memory alloy were able to greatly reinforce the matrix of the alloy while just slightly affecting its phase transformation characteristics. The fabricated NiTi alloy matrix composite possesses lower density, higher storage modulus and almost the same equivalent strength as the dense NiTi shape memory alloy, yet still exhibiting the shape memory effect and a steady linear superelasticity.

► Nano-SiC reinforced NiTi shape memory composite was made by powder metallurgy method.
► Use of nanosized SiC particles leads to a change of phase constituent of NiTi alloy.
► Use of nano-SiC slightly affects phase transformation characteristics of NiTi alloy.
► SiC/NiTi composite maintains shape memory effect and steady linear superelasticity.
► SiC/NiTi shows lower density, higher storage modulus, close strength to dense NiTi.