Abstract
NiTi-based shape memory alloys can be used as the active material in elastocaloric cooling devices. For optimal performance, they should simultaneously exhibit high reversibility and low temperature hysteresis, which can be achieved by ensuring that the middle eigenvalue of the primary stretch matrix λ2=1. Also, an adequate transformation temperature and a high enthalpy of transformation are required. In this study, a systematic screening for highly reversible shape memory alloys was performed, using compositionally graded Ni-Cu-Ti-Zr thin films generated by magnetron sputtering. Based on experimental data from the literature, a model predicting λ2 from the quaternary film compositions indicated a range of targeted compositions with λ2=1. The properties of the thin-film compositions were experimentally investigated to corroborate the theoretical possibilities. Martensitic phase transformations were observed with differential scanning calorimetry, demonstrating a systematic change in transformation temperatures with composition. X-ray diffraction confirmed a transition
between B2 austenite and B19’ martensite structures, similar to binary NiTi compounds. The targeted compositions did not exhibit the expected temperature-driven phase transformations with low hysteresis. Tensile testing revealed superelastic behaviour, but the samples were intrinsically brittle with large hysteresis and mechanical instability. This was explained by phase separation and the formation of Ti2Ni- and Ni4Ti3-like minority phases. Despite the failure to demonstrate new shape memory alloys with high reversibility, the study suggests a path to efficient searches for new alloys with novel functional properties.