Dynamic properties of nickel-titanium alloys

The shock response of near-equiatomic Ni-Ti alloys have been investigated to support studies of shock-induced martensitic transitions. The equation of state (EOS) and elasticity were predicted using ab initio quantum mechanics. Polycrystalline NiTi samples were prepared with a range of compositions, and thickesses between about 100 and 400 mum. Laser-driven flyer impact experiments were used to verify the EOS and to measure the flow stress from the amplitude of the elastic precursor; the spall strength was also obtained from these experiments. The laser flyer EOS data were consistent with Hugoniot points deduced from gas gun experiments. Decaying shocks were induced in samples, by direct laser irradiation with a variety of pressures and durations, to investigate the threshold for martensite formation.