Microstructure and shape memory properties of Fe–14Ru alloy

Abstract

The shape memory properties and microstructure associated with γ(fcc) → ɛ(hcp) martensitic transformation in an Fe–14Ru alloy have been investigated. The degree of shape recovery was measured via a bending test, and the microstructure was examined using X-ray diffractometry, optical microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The Fe–14Ru alloy showed shape recovery to some extent, but to a lower degree than in Fe–Mn–Si based shape memory alloys. The lower strength of the matrix, the presence of ɛ and α′ martensites at room temperature, and the higher stacking fault energy in the Fe–14Ru alloy are thought to be responsible for the weaker shape memory effect.