Shape Memory Alloys

Point of contact: Prof. Duncan Hand

The project is focused on the development of laser-based manufacturing processes to fabricate micro-actuators based on the Shape Memory effect, which can provide high energy density movements controlled e.g. by remotely induced heating.

Nickel-titanium shape memory alloy (SMA) has found many applications in medical devices due to its excellent biocompatibility coupled with its ability to change shape significantly (to a pre-programmed, i.e. memorised, state) as it crosses a transition temperature (that can be tuned by varying the alloy composition and thermomechanical treatment) close to body temperature.

The particular application of interest in this project is as a switch for fluid delivery that can be remotely actuated.  The concept is a shape memory alloy valve that can be switched via remote heating e.g. by using infrared light (if close to the skin) or radio energy transfer.

Laser-based precision manufacturing processes, including micromachined and localised heat treatment are being used to create mechanically bistable devices that will be applied as the basis of these switches, in combination with laser micromachined SMA.

Collaborators: Renishaw plc.

This work is funded by Renishaw and EPSRC under grant EP/W524669/1