Metamagnetic shape memory effect in NiMn-based Heusler-type alloys

Abstract

Recent findings on Heusler-type alloys in NiMnIn- and NiMnSn-based systems show a specific martensitic (i.e., diffusionless) transformation from a ferromagnetic parent (P) phase to an antiferromagnetic-like martensite (M) phase. In this paper, the magnetic and martensitic properties and the details of the magnetic field-induced shape memory effect (SME) are introduced in NiMnIn-based alloys. The martensitic transformation temperatures of these alloys significantly decrease with the application of a magnetic field, and a metamagnetic phase transformation occurs from the M phase to the P phase. By using this transition, a magnetic field-induced strain of approximately 3%, namely, a metamagnetic SME, is confirmed.