Formation and Evolution of Microstructure in Shape Memory Alloy Wire Reinforced Composites

In this work, we study the mechanical response of shape memory alloy (SMA) wire reinforced composites using a recently developed novel discrete particle model. In this model, the discrete particles interact through forces specified by the continuum thermoelastic free energy of the material. We study the formation and evolution of fine microstructure in the SMA composites with different matrix properties under thermal and mechanical loads. The effect of phase transformation and detwinning in the SMA on the overall mechanical response of the composite is studied. The elastic modulus of the matrix has a significant effect on the formation of the microstructure of the SMA. This in turn affects the overall damping response of the composite. Interestingly, in the case with high Young's modulus of the matrix, a retwinning process is observed upon unloading a detwinned wire. These results provide insights for the design and analysis of SMA composites.

Automated summary

In this study, the mechanical response of SMA wire reinforced composites was studied using a discrete particle model, revealing the significant influence of matrix elastic modulus on the formation of SMA microstructure and overall damping response. Interestingly, a retwinning process was observed in the case of high matrix Young's modulus upon unloading a detwinned wire.