Shape Memory Alloys: Modeling and Engineering Applications

Shape memory alloys (SMA's) can recover from large amounts of deformation as well as small amounts of strain. If these deformations are within recoverable ranges, the process of deformation and shape recovery can be repeated millions of times. The applications for shape memory alloys are quite extensive; they are used in medicine to create stents, in dentistry to create dental and orthodontic arch wires, and in aeronautics to create fluid fittings. This book provides a comprehensive introduction to the complex behavior of SMA's and a working knowledge of their modeling and engineering applications. Coverage includes a rigorous introduction to continuum mechanics and continuum thermodynamics as they relate to the development of SMA modeling.