Numerical simulations and experimental results of tensile behaviour of hybrid composite shape memory alloy wires embedded structures

The shape memory alloys (SMA) possess both sensing and actuating functions due to their shape memory effect, pseudo-elasticity, high damping capability and other remarkable properties. Combining the SMA with other materials can create intelligent or smart composites. The epoxy resin composites filled with Ti-Ni alloys wires were fabricated, and their mechanical properties have been investigated. In this study, stress/strain relationships for a composite with embedded SMA wires are presented. The paper illustrates influence of the SMA wires upon changes in mechanical behaviour of a composite plate with the SMA components, firstly and secondly, the actuating ability and reliability of shape memory alloy hybrid composites.