Design and fabrication of intelligent composites based on shape memory alloys

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) possess both sensing and actuating functions, shape memory effect, pseudo-elasticity, high damping capability and other remarkable properties. By combining SMAs with other advanced materials, intelligent or smart composites can be fabricated which can utilize the unique properties of the individual bulk materials and exhibit multiple responses. This paper overviews the principles, the basic design concepts and the fabrication of SMA composites, with an emphasis on SMA thin films and multilayer heterostructures, SMA fibers and paniculate-reinforced composites. Also, some key technical problems to be solved are discussed.