G. Baure, A. P. Jardine, Shape Change Technologies LLC, Thousand Oaks, CA
Gamma-phase manganese copper is a shape memory alloy with interesting properties. It exhibits weaker shape memory effect but better vibration damping than TiNi at low strains. In terms of process control, the MnCu alloy system is very forgiving compared to other intermetallics with the desired g-phase being stable through a very wide range of temperatures and compositions. The components are inexpensive and have low vapor pressures allowing for a synthesis process that is relatively cheap and straight-forward. Despite its potential, the Shape Memory effect in g-MnCu has not been well characterized. MnCu alloys can be electrodeposited making it possible to fabricate large area shape memory thin films. Shape Change Technologies has been able to produce MnCu thin films with the desired phase and composition. Bars of g-MnCu were also fabricated to test its bulk shape memory and vibration damping properties. DSC data indicated the Mf and Af of as-synthesized bulk samples were 123°C and 153°C, respectively, with the transition temperatures increasing with higher temperature annealing
Summary: Gamma-phase manganese copper is a shape memory alloy with interesting properties. It exhibits weaker shape memory effect but better vibration damping than TiNi at low strains. In terms of process control, the MnCu alloy system is very forgiving compared to other intermetallics with the desired g-phase being stable through a very wide range of temperatures and compositions. The components are inexpensive and have low vapor pressures allowing for a synthesis process that is relatively cheap and straight-forward. Despite its potential, the Shape Memory effect in g-MnCu has not been well characterized. MnCu alloys can be electrodeposited making it possible to fabricate large area shape memory thin films. Shape Change Technologies has been able to produce MnCu thin films with the desired phase and composition. Bars of g-MnCu were also fabricated to test its bulk shape memory and vibration damping properties. DSC data indicated the Mf and Af of as-synthesized bulk samples were 123°C and 153°C, respectively, with the transition temperatures increasing with higher temperature annealing
