Three-dimensional characterisation of precipitates in Ni-Ti shape memory alloys by slice-and-view in a FIB-SEM dual-beam microscope.

During annealing nano- to micro scale precipitates are formed in NiTi shape memory alloys. Type, size and distribution are depending on temperature, time and applied stresses during annealing. Those precipitates influence directly the martensitic transformation and the functional properties of those shape memory alloys.. A good understanding of the three dimensional distribution in the material is of crucial importance for further development of shape memory technology.

Keywords:Electron microscopy

Disciplines:Condensed matter physics and nanophysics