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Shape Memory Alloys for Aerospace, Recent Developments, and New Applications: A Short Review
Girolamo Costanza1, Maria Elisa Tata2
1Industrial Engineering Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 25, 2020
Summary
Shape memory alloys (SMAs) offer unique shape recovery and deformation capabilities. This review highlights their aerospace applications, including morphing wings and propulsion systems, for enhanced performance and efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
Background:
- Shape memory alloys (SMAs) exhibit unique properties like the shape memory effect and pseudoelasticity.
- These properties enable SMAs to function effectively as actuators in various applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diverse applications of SMAs in the aerospace sector.
- To emphasize the role of SMAs in advanced aerospace technologies and their benefits.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research and applications of SMAs in aerospace.
- Analysis of experimental and modeling studies related to SMA-powered aerospace systems.
Main Results:
- SMAs are crucial for morphing wings, propulsion system optimization (e.g., variable geometry chevrons), and reducing power consumption.
- Space applications include vibration isolation, low-shock release devices, and self-deployable solar sails.
Conclusions:
- SMAs offer significant advantages for aerospace applications, enabling innovative designs and improved performance.
- Further development and novel configurations of SMAs promise continued advancements in aerospace technology.
