Cu-based shape memory alloys belong to one important class of functional alloys, presenting shape memory effect and superelasticity due to their reversible martensitic transformation. Although they have been extensively studied since the middle of the last century, there are still many challenges to be solved. In the last decades, these alloys were extensively studied regarding new compositions, processing routes, phase transformation, mechanical and functional properties. Aspects of the thermoelastic phase transformation have been described using thermodynamic and thermo-mechanical studies, while the role of metallurgical features (such as grain size and morphology, ordering, precipitates and second phases) have been described mainly by phenomenological approach. In this sense this review discusses the advances in the general fundamentals of Cu-based shape memory alloys, the recent developments in processing routes, compositions, and applications in the last years. Graphical abstract :

Selective laser melting (SLM) is an additive manufacturing process used to produce parts with complex geometries layer by layer. This rapid solidification method allows fabricating samples in a non-equilibrium state and with refined microstructure. In this work, this method is used to fabricate 3 mm diameter rods of a Cu-based shape memory alloy. The phase formation, thermal stability and mechanical properties were investigated and correlated. Samples with a relative density higher than 92% and without cracks were obtained. A single monoclinic martensitic phase was formed with average grain size ranging between 28 to 36 μm. The samples exhibit a reverse martensitic transformation temperature around 106 ± 2 °C and a large plasticity in compression (around 15±1%) with a typical “double-yielding” behaviour.

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a class of material that undergoes a reversible shape change after a plastic deformation. The recovery of the original shape is possible due to a structural transformation upon heating to a critical temperature. The shape memory effect is related to a martensitic-austenitic transformation from a phase with a low symmetry (martensite) to a high-temperature phase (parent phase) [1]. Cu-based shape memory alloys have the advantage of large thermal and electrical conductivities and the system Cu-Al-Ni alloys are quite attractive due to better stabilisation against aging phenomena [2].