Submicron pillars of ferromagnetic shape memory alloys: Thermomechanical behavior

Abstract

Remarkable shape memory, superelasticity and rubber-like effects on the submicron scale have been disclosed in Ni–Fe(Co)–Ga and Ni–Mn–Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys. Arrays of pillars with the different cross-section and length have been prepared onto 001-oriented faces of the alloys single crystals and their thermomechanical behavior across the martensitic transformation was studied in the bending mode inside a scanning electron microscope. Recovered strains of up to 5% and 7% have been obtained as a result of shape memory and superelasticity effects, respectively. These findings are important for the development of novel micro/nanoelectromechanical systems to be controlled, contactless, by a magnetic field.