Similar Laser Welding of Shape Memory Alloys: microstructural and mechanical characterization

The demand of emerging joining techniques for shape memory alloys (SMA) has become of great importance, as their functional properties namely shape memory effect (SME) and superelasticity (SE) present unique solutions for state-of-the-art applications. Welding of SMAs is a challenge due to the risk of reduced mechanical performance after laser processing. The wider application of these alloys in various sectors as aerospace, medical or electronic industry is hindered by the limitations in its processing. The need to weld SMAs to other materials is pressing for applications in the above referred sectors. Research detailing the effects of laser processing on Nitinol is essential to overcome many of these challenges. The objectives of the current study are to detail the effects of laser welding in similar joints of nitinol.