Shape memory metals (SMMs) are a unique group of alloys which exhibit qualities of "memory and "trainability." These qualities make such materials prime candidates for use in "smart" structures or as constituents in the development of certain advanced composite materials. The use of these materials in structural applications requires proper constitutive characterization. The goal of this work is to design and conduct experiments on state of the art shape memory metals in order to provide information for proper and complete continuum materials characterization. The mechanical properties measured will form the basis for testing, validating and calibrating appropriate theoretical models.
