Characterization of the Shape Memory Properties of NiTiHfCu Alloys

Grants and Contracts Details

Description

Abstract Shape memory alloys (S:\;I:\s) have remarkable properties in actuation. \ ibration damping, noise reduction and sensing. They are compact. robust, lightweight. frictionless. quiet. environment-friendly (no hydraulic liquids), easy to be inspected and have lem aftermarket costs for inspection and maintenance. There is a growing demand for S\lAs capable at' use in compact actuators. smart fastening/release systems, and adaptive structures for application at elevated temperatures (80 )C or greater). These types of materials are ideal for non pyrotechnic release mechanisms and lightweight actuators for satellites. The development of a material with properties similar to /\/iTi (the most widely used SMA) but with TE above 100 "e is neededfor a broad range of applications in the aerospace industries. It has been revealed that addition of some ternary elements (HC Zr, Pd, Pc Au) successfully increases the TTs. Upon these alloys. due to low cost of Hf, NiTiHf alloys seems to be most promising high temperature shape memory alloy (HTS!\fA) for the \vide commercial applications. PI"s preliminary work on NiTiHf-based HT!\fAs has sho\vn that with suitable heat treatments, it is possible to form precipitates and control their size, distribution and volume fraction to alter the TTs in a broad range of temperatures. Although preliminary results are promising a systematic investigation is needed to determine the mechanical and shape memory propel1ies of heat treated HTS:\;IAs to establish microstructure-propel1y relationship. This requires extensive characterization of thermally treated alloys. In this study. the following objectives are proposed: I. Apply heat treatments to modity the microstructure features; 2. Determine precipitation characteristic 3. Characterize mechanical and shape memory properties of heat treated samples -1-. Establish microstructure-propet1y relationship 5. Strengthen the existing collaboration with NASA-Glenn and l'niversity of Kentucky; 6. Involve undergraduate and graduate students in research in the early stages of their career 7. Built an infrastructure for SMA research at University of Kentucky to contribute to the nation's scientific and engineering research and education development; 8. Contribute to the development of the Nation' s science. technology, engineering. and mathematics (STEM) workforce of the future by attracting and retaining students in mechanical and materials engineering discipline; The key outcomes from the proposed research are identified as (i) a deeper understanding on the em~cts of heat treatments on the microstructure and shape memory characteristics of HTS!\fAs; (ii) enable the design and construction of affordable, reliable. durable. and maintainable actuators for various aerospace applications, (iii) strengthen the collaboration bet\veen NASA-Glenn researchers and University of Kentucky, (iv) involve undergraduate student in research at early stages of academic life and (v) contribute to the development of the Nation's STEM workforce of the future by attracting and retaining students in mechanical engineering discipline. [n this study, expertise of NASA-Glenn researchers on high temperature shape memory alloy development \\ill be sought, and one the students working on this project \vill visit NA.S.research center for materials testing and characterization.
StatusFinished
Effective start/end date8/15/094/15/10

Funding

  • Western Kentucky University: $25,000.00

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