The influence of stress on subsequent superelastic behaviour in Ti2448 (Ti–24Nb–4Zr–8Sn, wt%)

Superelastic alloys, such as those based on Ti2448 (Ti–24Nb–4Zr–8Sn wt%) have potential to be used in vibration damping systems in the aerospace industry. However, the accumulation of strain on superelastic load cycling, which can additionally be shown to depend on the cooling rate from the β phase, is not well characterised or understood and, as such, limits industrial acceptance. This study aims to rationalise the mechanical behaviour of Ti2448 for three sample conditions and suggests a mechanism to explain the evolution of this behaviour with mechanical cycling. By understanding the mechanisms that govern the mechanical response of these materials, alloys can be more specifically designed and processed to achieve the properties desired for industrial applications.