Pressure-induced transformation in NiTi-CuAg shape memory alloys: investigation of microstructural and thermodynamic changes

Shape memory alloys (SMAs), particularly nickel-titanium (NiTi) based systems, are widely recognized for their unique shape memory effect and superelastic behavior, driven by reversible martensitic phase transformations. To enhance these functional properties for advanced applications, alloying with elements such as copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) has been explored. This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of a novel quaternary NiTiCuAg shape memory alloy. The alloy was fabricated via arc-melting from high-purity elemental powders, followed by application of varying uniaxial compressive pressures to assess their effects on phase transformation behavior. Thermal, structural, and microstructural properties were evaluated using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy-Dispersive x-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), and x-ray Diffraction (XRD). The results aim to elucidate the combined effects of compositional tailoring and mechanical processing on the functional performance of NiTiCuAg SMAs, with implications for their use in high-performance, pressure-sensitive applications.