Superelasticity and Shape Memory in Micro‐ and Nanometer‐scale Pillars

Superelasticity and shape memory down to the nanometer scale are successfully demonstrated in micro- and nanometer-scale pillars of a Cu-Al-Ni shape memory alloy. Microcompression tests show superelastic behavior with recoverable strains above 5 % during more than 100 cycles. In addition, shape memory behavior with complete shape recovery at both the micro- and nanometer scales is also observed, opening the door to a new generation of smart micro and nano devices. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http: //www. wiley-vch. de/contents/jc₂089/2008/c1527ₛ. pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.