Fabrication of Thermal Plasma Sprayed NiTi Coatings Possessing Functional Properties

Thick NiTi shape memory alloy coatings (300-500 mu m) were produced on graphite and AISI 304 substrates by radio frequency inductively-coupled plasma spray technology (RF-ICP) from feedstock NiTi powders. Their microstructure as well as chemical and phase composition were characterized and a methodology for the characterization of functional shape memory properties of the thick coatings was developed. The coatings exhibited cubic to monoclinic martensitic transformation and shape memory effect. The presented results prove that NiTi coatings with functional thermomechanical properties can be easily produced on structural materials by RF-ICP. Further optimization will be needed to prepare NiTi coatings with better microstructural and chemical homogeneity.

Automated summary

Thick NiTi shape memory alloy coatings were successfully produced on graphite and AISI 304 substrates using radio frequency inductively-coupled plasma spray technology. The coatings exhibited martensitic transformation and shape memory effect, indicating their potential for practical applications. Further optimization is necessary to enhance the microstructural and chemical homogeneity of the coatings.