Abstract:The degradation behavior of two way shape memory effect in a Cu-20.4Zn-5.6Al (mass fraction, %) alloy by differential scanning calorimetry has been dealt with. Calorimetric technique has been revealed as a powerful way to obtain information concerning the evolution of the trained material. After ageing for several hours at relatively low temperature, the change of martensite from preferred orientation to self accommodation results in the degradation of TWSME which is recoverable. After ageing at relatively low temperatures (100℃, 140℃) for longer time or ageing at high temperature (200℃), the degradation of TWSME is irrecoverable which results from precipitate.

Key words: shape memory alloy two way shape memory effect thermal analysis degradation