Grain Size Effect on the Microstructure of Deformed Fe-Mn-Si Based Shape Memory Alloys

Microstructure and shape memory effect have been examined by TEM and HVEM after deformation by tension and compression tests with special interest on the grain size refinement. The yield stress increased substantially by the grain size refinement, yet maintaining a good shape memory effect. In addition to the above mentioned slow strain rate tests, high-speed deformation tests were also made either by dropping a weight or by shooting a bullet.