Processing and Mechanical Properties of NiTiPt based Alloys

To search for high radiopaque super-elastic alloys for medical application, several NiTiPt based alloys with Pt content up to ~16 at. % were studied. NiTi alloys with such high Pt generally have very high transformation temperatures and show shape memory effect. However, room temperature super-elasticity can be achieved with additional elements such as Co or Nb and proper processing techniques. These alloys showed very high mechanical strength and were prone to surface oxidization, which made the processing very challenging. Effect of chemistry, heat treating temperature on mechanical properties and unique aging responses of these alloys will be discussed.