Properties Of Shape Memory Alloys Research Articles

Effect of Ni4Ti3 precipitates on the functional properties of NiTi shape memory alloys: A phase field study

Ni4Ti3 precipitates, which generally exist in aged Ni-rich NiTi shape memory alloys (SMAs), can have a profound effect on material properties. However, the fundamental insights into the effects of Ni4Ti3 precipitates on the functional properties, including the superelasticity (SE), elastocaloric effect (eCE), and shape memory effects (SMEs), are not well understood yet, especially those originating from the B2-B19′ martensite transformation (MT). In this work, a phase field model coupling the precipitation of Ni4Ti3 and the B2-B19′ MT is proposed, where the thermo-mechanical coupling effect and grain size effect are considered. The precipitate-dependent SE, eCE, one-way SME (OWSME), and stress-assisted two-way SME (SATWSME) of single-crystal, polycrystalline, and gradient-nanograined NiTi SMAs are simulated. The effects of the precipitate density, grain orientation range (texture), and gradient-distributed precipitate are examined, and the underlying microscopic mechanisms are revealed. The simulation results and new findings not only contribute to a more comprehensive insight into the effect of Ni4Ti3 precipitates on the MT, martensite reorientation, and functional properties of NiTi SMAs but also provide a reference for the development of excellent SMA-based solid refrigerants or SMA smart materials with designable functional properties.

Thermodynamic rationale for transformation-induced dislocations in shape memory alloys

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) undergo stress-induced martensitic phase-transformation affording a “superelastic” behavior with functional applications. Such behavior is undermined by the formation and accumulation of irreversible residual strains in each cycle. These residual strains arise from transformation-induced dislocation-emission and current understanding has postulated the microstructural role of emitted dislocations to accommodate lattice-mismatch while also observing a preference to occur during reverse-transformation. This study develops a thermodynamic framework to offer a causal explanation for dislocation-emission from Gibbs’ free energy considerations. Superelastic stress-strain curves for a reversible pathway without emitted-dislocations and for an irreversible pathway with emitted-dislocations are derived. The role of emitted-strain in relaxing the transformation-strain of the martensitic-inclusion and in accruing residual strain is proposed. It is shown that both pathways obey the first law of thermodynamics but it is the second law of thermodynamics that dictates the path preference. It is shown that the irreversible path achieves the critical condition for spontaneous reverse-transformation at a higher stress-level than the reversible path. Thus, the irreversible pathway initiates earlier during unloading and is thermodynamically selected during reverse-transformation. The driving-forces associated with the irreversible pathway are analyzed to establish the cause of emitted-dislocations and why it is thermodynamically preferred despite offering a higher lattice-friction barrier. Consequently, a new approach to target fatigue-resistant SMA properties is offered, focusing on the interplay of the individual driving-forces coming from the elastic strain-energy, work-interaction, and lattice-friction, as revealed by the thermodynamic framework.

Effect of Heat Treatments on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Fe-Mn-Ni-Al-Gd Shape Memory Alloy

There are significant scientific and industrial efforts to develop and optimize Iron-based shape memory alloys (SMA) such as FeMnNiAl for cost-sensitive applications. This alloy system shows shape memory and superelastic properties across a large temperature range. However, many studies have pointed out the need for rather complex thermo-mechanical treatments for the optimization of the SMA properties. In addition, works considering the effects of alloying on the development of microstructures that are more conducive to pseudo-elasticity in this system remain limited. Hence, systematic studies aiming at the investigation of the microstructural evolution of the FeMnNiAl(Gd) system are of great interest. In this study, solution heat treatment is done to tune the microstructure for optimum mechanical properties. The effect of phase distribution on mechanical properties is investigated at different heat treatments. Whereas cyclic heat treatment induced abnormal grain growth (AGG) in all samples, so large grains were obtained. The phase variation and elemental composition are analyzed by X-ray diffraction and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, respectively. The microstructure and phase distribution are observed using Scanning Electron Microscope and then related to the microhardness results. The microstructure has a good correlation with mechanical properties where the fine distribution of phases results in a higher hardness number.

Development of an Automated Experimental System for Thermomechanical and Electrical Characterization of NiTi Shape Memory Alloys

BackgroundComprehensive datasets quantifying the coupled thermo-mechanical and electrical properties of shape memory alloys (SMAs) are lacking, as are standardized techniques for robust characterization. This hampers accurate modeling and design of SMA-based components. Objective: This work develops an automated experimental system to enable simultaneous measurement of stress-strain-temperature behavior and electrical resistivity evolution in NiTi SMA wires under controlled stress conditions. Methods: Customized test frames apply precise mechanical stresses while allowing for in situ electrical measurements and infrared imaging during complete thermal cycling protocols. Specialized instrumentation including a Keithley 2002 multimeter, Agilent E3631A programmable power supply, and FLIR A615 thermal camera are integrated with LabVIEW-based software routines for complete automation of the characterization process. Rigorous metrology principles are implemented throughout the measurement procedure to improve accuracy, repeatability, and consistency compared to prior manual techniques. Results: Extensive datasets are generated which reveal pronounced stress-dependencies in key SMA material parameters including transformation temperatures, recoverable strain, and electrical resistivity. A 3D regression model describes the comprehensive relationship between resistivity, temperature, and applied stress across the entire characterization domain. Conclusions: The automated measurement framework and methodology establishes a foundation for high-fidelity, reliable acquisition of coupled SMA property data. This will enable more accurate modeling and design of components and systems incorporating SMA actuation or sensing functions.

Nonlinear dynamics analysis of the attachment system and design of variable stiffness connecting bracket based on the complete aero-engine system

During the operation of the aero-engine, the attachment and brackets are subjected to various complex internal and external loads, which can pose risks to the structural integrity of the engine. To address this issue, this paper introduces a variable stiffness bracket designed for vibration reduction in the attachment system. Firstly, a finite element model (FEM) of the aero-engine was established using the Lagrangian method, incorporating the dual rotor-bearing system and bracket-attachment system. Subsequently, the vibration response of the system was solved using the Runge-Kutta method. The sources and propagation paths of vibration within the system were identified. Lastly, leveraging the material properties of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA), a stiffness-adjustable bracket for the aircraft engine was proposed to achieve active vibration reduction in the system. The results demonstrate that the variable stiffness bracket effectively reduces the resonance amplitude and frequency in the attachment system, exhibiting excellent vibration reduction and isolation capabilities.

Cryogenic rolling induces quasi-linear superelasticity with high strength over a wide temperature range in TiNi shape memory alloys

Materials with high functional and strength performance are finding wide range of applications. In this study, we propose an approach to enhance the synergistic relationship between recoverable strain and strength in TiNi shape memory alloys (SMAs) by utilizing cryogenic rolling. Comparative analysis of the rolled samples, which experienced a thickness reduction of up to 13% at a nitrogen temperature, revealed good cycling stability, greater recoverable strain, reduced modulus, and increased strength at room temperature when compared to their undeformed counterparts. Notably, these rolled samples exhibited a significant recoverable strain (>4%) and impressive strength (0.8∼1.6 GPa) over a wide temperature range (∼400 K). Our findings suggest that these enhancements can be attributed to the emergence of the B19′ strain glass transition. This research not only illuminates the potential advantages of cryogenic rolling in shaping the functional and structural properties of SMAs but also offers a promising avenue for effectively regulating properties.

Shape memory alloy-reinforced UHPC tube confined bridge piers for enhancing the seismic resistance of highway bridges

Multi-span continuous highway bridges supported with reinforced concrete (RC) bridge piers may experience large permanent deformation after strong earthquakes. To overcome the limitations, an innovative UHPC tube-confined SMA reinforced bridge pier, i.e., shape memory alloy (SMA) replacing the steel rebars at the plastic hinge region and a prefabricated UHPC tube substituting the cover concrete, is proposed. To fully utilize the tensile strength of UHPC, the UHPC tube is embedded into the foundation. A performance-based seismic design procedure considering target residual drift as engineering demand parameter (EDP) is proposed to design this novel UHPC-SMA pier. The seismic responses of novel bridge systems supported by UHPC piers (Bridge II) and UHPC-SMA piers (Bridge III) are investigated and compared with reference bridge (Bridge I) having RC piers. The results indicate that both UHPC piers and UHPC-SMA piers are efficient in improving the seismic resistance of highway bridges. Compared with Bridge I, the prefabricated UHPC tube significantly decreases the residual deformation of Bridge II piers by 22.9 % as a result of the bridging effect of steel fibers. Due to the excellent self-centering property of SMA, the residual deformation of Bridge III piers decreases further by 57.8 % in comparison to reference bridge. The UHPC tube increases the low stiffness of bridge piers caused by SMA rebars at the plastic hinge region. The combination of UHPC tube and SMA can effectively prevent core concrete from severe damage with less dissipated energy of bridge piers.

Application and Performance Evaluation of Superelastic Shape Memory Alloys in Building Vibration Isolation Systems

Abstract In this study, the intrinsic model of Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) is employed to facilitate a comprehensive analysis of the phase transition process, encapsulating the evolution of stress and strain across varying temperatures. The martensite volume fraction is quantitatively described using a cosine function, culminating in the formulation of a cosine-type SMA phase transition equation. This model enables the simulation of superelasticity, shape memory effects, and the elastic-thermal behavior of SMA by varying the loading conditions. This approach allows for an assessment of how different material parameters influence SMA properties. Notably, the results highlight that the heating temperature significantly affects the hyperelastic energy dissipation properties of SMA. The energy dissipation coefficient increased by 15.3% when the temperature was increased from 350 to 550 and decreased by 36.3% when the temperature was increased from 550 to 650. The peak values of top acceleration and interstorey displacement of the SMA-isolated structure were 0.826 m/s² and 0.641 mm for EL-centro waves at 7+ seismic intensities. The values of non-isolated were 1.151 m/s², 0.856 mm. 10 ground shaking, the SMA braced structure relative to the steel frame structure on the maximum peak inter-story displacement angle and the structure of the top layer of the permanent displacement, have different degrees of reduction. Therefore, the SMA material possesses good damping performance in the seismic isolation system.

Hybrid Technique for Vibration Control using Synchronized Switch Damping on Inductor Modal Approach and Shape Memory Alloy Integration

Vibration control is a critical aspect of various engineering applications, including automotive and aerospace systems. This research paper presents a novel approach to enhance the performance of the Synchronized Switch Damping on Inductor (SSDI) technique by incorporating Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs). SSDI has proven effective in managing energy dissipation during electronic switching transitions, mitigating voltage spikes and reducing electromagnetic interference. However, the method consumes a substantial amount of energy. In this study, we propose a hybrid approach that combines the benefits of SSDI with the unique properties of SMAs to achieve improved vibration control. The integration of SMAs introduces a semi-passive element to the system, exploiting the inherent properties of these alloys to undergo reversible shape changes in response to external stimuli. By strategically placing SMAs within the vibration-prone components of the system, we aim to harness the mechanical forces generated during shape recovery to counteract and dampen vibrations. This innovative approach aims to capitalize on the efficient energy conversion capabilities of SMAs, thus minimizing the additional energy consumption associated with traditional semi-passive methods. The research involves theoretical modeling and simulation studies to assess the effectiveness of the proposed technique. Preliminary results demonstrate a significant reduction in vibration amplitudes and enhanced damping capabilities, validating the potential of the integrated SSDI-SMA system. The findings of this study not only contribute to advancements in vibration control methodologies but also provide insights into the broader applications of SMA-enhanced semi-passive techniques in improving the overall performance and efficiency of systems.

Problems of modeling elements with shape memory alloys of military equipment

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are used in various fields, including military equipment, to create means with autonomous or improved properties. It can be especially useful in structural elements that are capable of self-healing after deformations or damage as a result of explosions, impacts or other loads that occur during military operations.
 SMAs are materials that have the ability to remember and restore the accumulated deformation under certain conditions. This makes them particularly useful in robotics, where they can be used to create moving parts, sensors, actuators and other components.
 One of the main applications of SMA in robotics is the creation of moving elements. For example, they can be used to create bendable segments in jobs that require flexibility and mobility. SMAs can be used to create manipulators that allow a robot to easily move and perform tasks in different environments. One of the most important properties of SMAs is their ability to retain their shape during deformation. This makes them useful for building sensors that can detect differences in the shape of an object. SMAs can be used to create pressure sensors that respond to a change in shape under the influence of external pressure. These sensors can be used to develop robots that can recognize objects and distinguish them by shape. SMA can also be used to create actuators. Actuators are components that convert electrical, mechanical, or other types of energy into motion. SMA are materials that have the ability to remember and restore the accumulated deformation under certain conditions. This is achieved due to the peculiarities of their microstructure and thermoelastic effect. When SMA is subjected to thermal influence in the temperature zone where it can transition between two states: austenitic (higher temperature) and martensitic (lower temperature), under an existing external load, the phase strain increases, and with the degree of load, the temperature of the beginning and end of the emerging of straine changes. Each of these states has its own crystal structure and characteristics determined by its chemical composition. The article considers the issue of taking into account the shift of characteristic temperatures under the influence of an external load of SMA in terms of the synthetic theory of irreversible deformation and proposes a non-linear formula for finding the characteristic temperatures of metals with memory during loading. The obtained ratio was used to find the proportion of the new phase and the rate of formation of the new phase as a function of the magnitude of the external load, the rate of loading, the absolute temperature, the rate of temperature change and the characteristic temperatures in terms of the effective temperature.

Solving the puzzle of hierarchical martensitic microstructures in NiTi by (111)-oriented epitaxial films

The martensitic microstructure decides on the functional properties of shape memory alloys. However, for the most commonly used alloy, NiTi, it is still unclear how its microstructure is built up because the analysis is hampered by grain boundaries of polycrystalline samples. Here, we eliminate grain boundaries by using epitaxially grown films in (111)B2 orientation. By combining scale-bridging microscopy with integral inverse pole figures, we solve the puzzle of the hierarchical martensitic microstructure. We identify two martensite clusters as building blocks and three kinds of twin boundaries. Nesting them at different length scales explains why habit plane variants with ⟨011⟩B19' twin boundaries and {942} habit planes are dominant; but also some incompatible interfaces occur. Though the observed hierarchical microstructure agrees with the phenomenological theory of martensite, the transformation path decides which microstructure forms. The combination of local and global measurements with theory allows solving the scale bridging 3D puzzle of the martensitic microstructure in NiTi exemplarily for epitaxial films.

Advances in Shape Memory Alloy-Based Reinforcement in Steel Structures: A Review

The utilization of shape memory alloys (SMAs) to reinforce steel structures has been proven to be an efficient and reliable method, the structural strengthening needs can be met without the need for tensioning equipment by activating the SMAs to generate restoring stresses. This paper firstly introduces the properties of SMA, and then presents the latest research progress, opportunities and challenges of SMA in the field of steel structural reinforcement, both in terms of basic components and applications. In terms of components, the construction forms and working mechanisms of Fe-SMA strips, SMA/CFRP composite patches and SMA dampers are introduced. On this basis, the application of SMA in steel structures reinforcement is introduced, and its effect is analyzed from three aspects: crack restoration, seismic retrofitting and structural strengthening. Finally, the results of the current research are summarized and the shortcomings are analyzed, hoping to provide a reference for the research of SMA in the field of steel structures reinforcement.

Enhancing the thermal stability and recoverability of ZrCu-based shape memory alloys via interstitial doping

ZrCu-based shape memory alloys (SMAs) are regarded as emerging smart materials with high phase transformation temperatures. However, unfavorable thermal stability and poor strain recovery rate hinder commercial applications. Herein, these issues were addressed by doping interstitial B atoms, and the impacts of B content on microstructure, martensitic transformation behavior and properties of ZrCu-based SMAs were systematically investigated. It was shown that (Zr50Cu25Ni7.5Co17.5)99.98B0.02 SMAs possessed excellent thermal stability and shape memory effect. The change of martensitic transformation temperature for this alloy was 15.7 °C after several cycles. The shape recovery rate reached 92.5 % at 8 % compressive pre-strain, which was attributed to the de-twinning of (0 0 1) compound twins and the appearance of (1 1 1) type I twins. Furthermore, it was elucidated for the first time by first-principles calculations that B atoms were covalently bonded with Zr and Cu atoms occupying the octahedral interstitial positions in the B19′ and Cm phases. This study offers an available pathway to exploit efficient and advanced products.

Smart materials: The next generation in science and engineering

In recent years, fascinating developments in various areas of materials science have happened. Smart materials, also known as intelligent or stimuli-responsive materials, have attracted attention in science and engineering. Smart materials are divided into six different groups: shape memory materials, piezoelectric materials, magnetostrictive materials, electro-rheological and magneto-rheological fluids, and self-healing materials. Shape-memory and self-healing materials are the most popular and important kinds of smart materials. Shape-memory materials have the ability to react to certain stimuli, such as temperature, pH, light, magnetic fields, and electric fields, and transform from a temporary shape to their original shape after exposure to these stimuli. Shape-memory alloys and shape-memory polymers have attracted the most attention and are widely used among all kinds of shape-memory materials developed. The two most important properties of shape-memory alloys are shape memory and superelasticity. Shape-memory polymers are gaining popularity because of specific benefits such as their high shape recovery rate, light weight, low density, high strength-to-weight ratio, high shape deformability, and readily tailorable glass transition temperature. Self-healing materials have the ability to fully or partially repair their features and functionality after repeated damage. Self-healing materials are divided into two categories: intrinsic and extrinsic, as well as autonomous and non-autonomous. These materials have the potential to increase their lifetime while reducing maintenance costs. Smart materials have a wide range of applications, including aerospace, automotive, biomedicine, and construction. The goal of this paper is to provide an overview of smart materials.

Diameter-Dependent Shape Memory Effect and Superelasticity in Ni-Mn-Ga Alloy Micro-fibers

Abstract: The functional properties of shape memory alloys (SMAs) may be affected by the material size and thus is important for designing micron-sized devices. Here the diameter-dependent size effect was demonstrated in Ni-Mn-Ga fibers with diameters of 15, 41, 53 and 70μm. The effect of fiber diameter on the shape memory effect (SME) and superelasticity (SE) was systematically studied. The results showed that all Ni-Mn-Ga fibers exhibited good stress assisted thermal cycles and SE, both diameter-dependent. For stress assisted thermal cycles, the temperature hysteresis of martensite transformation (MT) and sensitivity of MT temperature vs stress increased with increasing fiber diameter. While for SE, the stress hysteresis, temperature dependence of critical stress and energy dissipation capacity decreased with increasing fiber diameter. Thermodynamic analysis revealed that the diameter-dependent effect may be attributed to the different heat exchange and frictional work dissipation capacities related to the specific surface areas that affected the thermal- or stress-induced MT processes. Such diameter dependence in Ni-Mn-Ga micro-fibers needs to be considered for the design and application in micro-sized devices.

Mechanical properties and constitutive models of shape memory alloy for structural engineering: A review

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) are an innovative material with the unique features of superelasticity and energy dissipation capabilities under extreme loads. Due to their unique features, they have a great potential to be employed in structural engineering applications under different conditions. However, in order to effectively use SMAs in civil engineering structures and model their behaviors accurately in Finite Element (FE) packages, it is crucial for structural engineers to comprehend the mechanical properties and cyclic behavior of different SMA compositions under varying loading conditions. While previous studies have focused mainly on the cyclic behavior of SMAs under tensile loading, it is important to evaluate their fatigue behavior under cyclic tension-compression loading for seismic applications. This literature review aims to discuss the current gaps in the existing literature on the behavior of SMA rebars under low-cycle fatigue (LCF). The review provides a comprehensive overview of the primary characteristics of SMAs, summarizes the mechanical properties of SMAs presented in the literature and the parameters that affect them, and critically evaluates the effects of cyclic loading and LCF on SMAs. The review also provides a summary of the different constitutive models of SMAs and compares their advantages and limitations, which helps structural engineers to employ an appropriate constitutive model for predicting the accurate behavior of SMAs in FE software.

Bending of a plate from a functionally heterogeneous material in the presence of large deformations

Details and elements of structures, which are made of functionally heterogeneous materials and have the property of shape memory and behave pseudo-elastically, may be under the influence of complex loads in the process of manufacturing and operation. Uneven heating of bodies in combination with force factors can lead to large deformations of the material and complex deformation processes. The existing models of the behavior of such elements do not take into account the nonlinearity of geometric relationships and are unsuitable for use with large deformations.
 The article deals with the bending of a plate of finite dimensions from a functionally heterogeneous material in the presence of large plastic deformations. The simulation of plate behavior is based on a nonlinear phenomenological model that describes the properties of shape memory alloys and the thermos-pseudo-plastic behavior of the material at a point. A diagram of a pseudo-elastic material consisting of three curved sections is used.
 The first feature of the formulation of the problem of specifying the area of geometric nonlinearity is the formulation of the boundary conditions around the support. If for a linear problem they are set only along the support line, then to refine the geometrically nonlinear solution, the zero vertical displacements of the plate points and, accordingly, the speed of movement were set in the vicinity of the area of contact with the support. The second feature of the refinement is a significant reduction in the number of coordinate integration steps (up to 5%). At the same time, in order to fulfill the condition of stability, a proportional reduction of the integration step over time is necessary. For a reliable comparison of results, it is necessary to increase the number of time integration steps while decreasing the integration steps by coordinates. This problem was solved using a sequence of numerical experiments. The third feature consists in solving the additional problem of interpolation of the required values in the nodes of the new finer grid by the corresponding value in the nodes of the main grid. This problem is solved using a two-dimensional spline function.

Deformation mechanism of Cu-Al-Ni shape memory alloys fabricated via laser powder bed fusion: Tension-compression asymmetry

Introducing the unique advantage of additive manufacturing technology into copper-based shape memory alloys (SMAs) to fabricate high-performance alloys has garnered great attention in recent years, but the intrinsic relationships between microstructure and mechanical properties need to be further clarified. In this paper, the microstructural evolution of ternary CuAlNi SMAs fabricated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) under the tensile-compressive loading was investigated to determine the underlying mechanism of tension-compression asymmetry, that is, excellent compressive but poor tensile properties. Multiscale characterization of the different deformation stages revealed the numerous activated deformation mechanism on the 18R martensite matrix. A twin-related transformation dominated the main plastic deformation process due to lower stacking faults energy and high-density pre-existing planer defects in the CuAlNi SMAs. Deformation twinning nucleated at prior austenite boundaries and developed into parallel and network structures inside the parent grain of different sizes. In addition, the preferred orientation in different stages, the stress-induced γ phase transformation, and the interaction between dislocations and stacking faults are discussed. These results not only provide significant insights to understand the detwinning and deformation twinning process of SMAs but also establish the essential framework of microstructure and mechanical properties of Cu-based SMAs fabricated by LPBF.

Explorations of knitted shape memory alloy actuation behavior under high loads via finite element analyses and experimental studies

The properties of shape memory alloy (SMA) wires have long been leveraged across a variety of industries. While the response of such SMA forms implemented as straight axial actuators is well understood, curved and complex configurations such as knits have received far less attention. Considering 2D configurations, it is well known that knits exhibit more in-plane compliance than weaves and meshes, the curved wires comprising the former being much more flexible than the straight wire segments in the latter. In addition, knitted structures are uniquely highly tailorable. Knitting techniques and patterns developed in the textile industry allow for variable materials and geometries in the same structure, allowing for a large range of tailored macro-structure responses. Existing efforts to model the behavior of knitted SMA structures are lacking; though finite element analysis (FEA) models have been presented for knit SMAs, these models either only consider superelastic SMA behavior, or, in those that account for actuation behavior, the applied load conditions studied are insufficient to fully leverage the thermally induced strain recoverability of SMAs. This work seeks to develop and validate a finite element model for the actuation of SMA knitted structures where individual SMA wire components are axially stressed to more than 100 MPa. A representative volume element is developed for a common knit pattern, and macro-structure responses are explored and compared with experiments. This research provides a foundation for better understanding fundamental capabilities and responses of knitted SMA structures, allowing for better design, functionality, and customizability of the applications into which they are incorporated, enabling development of unique soft actuators. A shape-set sample examined herein generated 13% extension (analogous to strain) and recovered more that 6% under a load associated with 100 MPa stress in a straight wire, and a sample knit off-the-spool generated over 20% extension and recovered 9% for the same load.

High-performance Cu-Al shape memory alloy in ternary combination with graphene fabricated by powder bed fusion process

The main characteristic feature of Cu-based high-temperature shape memory alloys (SMAs) such as Cu-Al-Ni alloys is their high transformation temperatures that enable their applications at high temperatures. The improvement of thermodynamic properties of SMAs with reinforcements is essential for more applications at high temperatures with fewer negative effects of exposure at high temperatures, such as alloy softening that can deteriorate the strength and shape memory effect (SME) simultaneously. To avoid the negative effects of micro-reinforcements such as stress localization, in this study, graphene (GN) was substituted with Ni, and a new alloy labeled Cu-Al-GN with 0.2 wt% graphene was formed. A graphene-reinforced alloy labeled Cu-Al-Ni-GN was also fabricated by a laser powder bed fusion process for comparison purposes. The results showed that the Cu-Al-GN alloy exhibited enhanced performance in terms of improved reinforcement distribution, finer grains, defect-free samples with the highest SME at subsequent cycles, and less time required to achieve a targeted SME during heating, despite the smaller SME in the initial recovery cycles. Thus, the results of this study confirm that the proposed Cu-Al-0.2GN alloy combination promises high performance for recovery cycles and is time and cost saving, rendering it a suitable candidate for rapid production.