In situ W–NiTi shape memory alloy composite of high radiopacity

An in situ NiTi–11 at.% W shape memory alloy composite was fabricated via a two-step melting process that involved first melting a prefabricated powder-sintered Ni–20 at.% W block and then adding Ti into the melt. After solidification, a W–NiTi composite ingot was obtained with in situ formed W particles uniformly dispersed in the NiTi matrix. The composite ingot was drawn into a composite wire of NiTi matrix and W fibers. The composite wire exhibits reversible martensitic transformation, superelasticity and improved radiopacity due to the presence of W.