Kinetic grain growth in β-copper shape memory alloys

The kinetic grain growth has been studied for β-CuZnAl, β-CuAlMn, β-CuZnAlMn, β-CuAlMnSi and β-CuZnAlCo shape memory alloys by the calculation of different grain parameters and the ratio of the grain boundary area per unit volume from measurements obtained at different temperatures and heat treatment times. The growth exponent and activation energy have been evaluated. The martensitic transformation temperatures and stress induced martensite were studied in relation to grain growth for different heat treatment temperatures and times. Linear decreases in the Ms and As temperatures and a linear increase in the critical stresses with respect to the grain growth have been obtained.