Session: 06-04: Bioinspired Smart Composites

Paper Number: 111179

111179 - Characterization of Shape Memory Alloys for Smart Composites Under Different Environmental Conditions Using an In-Situ Thermal Chamber 

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) have gained widespread interest in various engineering applications due to their unique mechanical properties, such as the shape memory effect and superelasticity. However, the mechanical behavior and material properties of SMAs are highly dependent on their composition and processing history, making it challenging to develop a comprehensive understanding of their behavior under different environmental conditions. Therefore, there is a need to develop a reliable method for characterizing the mechanical behavior and material properties of SMAs, particularly those used in smart composites.

This study proposes a novel approach for characterizing SMAs by designing and fabricating an in-situ thermal chamber that generates controlled changes in temperature and humidity. The chamber is integrated with a Motorized Force tester to perform tensile and compressive tests on SMA samples under varying environmental conditions. This methodology provides a reliable and efficient method for characterizing the mechanical behavior of SMAs under different environmental conditions, and allows for the development of numerical and analytical models to predict their performance in various applications.

The obtained data is essential for the development of accurate models to predict the performance of composite materials that incorporate SMAs. By integrating these models into the design process, engineers can optimize the performance of SMA-based materials and structures, and better exploit their unique mechanical properties

Presenting Author: Avik Ahuja Texas A&M University

Presenting Author Biography: Avik Ahuja is an undergraduate student in Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University, having been awarded the honors of being on the Dean's Honor Roll and an Engineering Honors student. With an interest in the intersection of engineering and medicine, he is currently pursuing training to become an emergency medical responder. Avik is engaged in research focused on leveraging principles of biology to design, simulate, and experiment with bioinspired materials and devices.