Effect of Ce addition on mechanical properties and shape memory effect of Cu-14%Al-4.5%Ni shape memory alloy

This investigation examines the influences of the (Ce) addition on the mechanical properties and the shape memory effect (SME) of the Cu-based shape memory alloys (SMAs), in which (Ce) is added in three percentages (0.3, 1.0 and 3 wt%) to the base material (Cu-14%Al-4.5%Ni). Different tests and inspections, including X-ray diffraction, compression, HV hardness, and the thermomechanical tests were conducted on the (Ce-modified) alloys. In addition, a differential scanning calorimetry test, microstructure examination via optical measurements, and (SEM) for the whole alloys were performed. Results revealed an increment in the hardness, the yield strength and the maximum strain (ε max%) occurred with the increase of the (Ce %) in the base shape memory alloy (with exception of the 3% Ce case). The thermomechanical characteristics depicted an increment in the recovery of strain by as much (98.72%) with a reduction in the modulus of elasticity of martensite and an increment in the modulus of elasticity of austenite. Moreover, the temperatures of transformation shifted to beyond the base shape memory alloy domain (100–170 °C), and the modified (SMA) with (3% Ce) exhibited better results than the other materials.