Guaranteed behavior on SMA: Mesoscopic and microscopic analysis of Cu-based alloys

A guaranteed behavior, or at least a predictable behavior, establishing the expected evolution of the shape memory properties (transformation temperatures and hysteretic behavior) is of the primary importance for most of the applications. In particular, the SMA applications in Civil Engineering require guaranteed long time devices. Mesoscopic and microscopic results will be described to increase the reliability of the materials. In particular, the effects related to the two-phase coexistence, the climate and seasonal effects on the martensitic transformation temperature and also, the effects of fatigue related to the dislocation creation and to the subsequent modifications induced on the dynamics of the processes.