Dynamic Response of Ni_55.9Ti_44.1 Shape Memory Alloy Plates Under Single Low-Velocity Impact: An Experimental Investigation

Nickel-titanium shape memory alloys exhibit distinctive properties, making them promising candidates across diverse engineering applications. Nevertheless, a research void exists concerning their low-velocity impact response, which has importance in critical applications spanning aerospace, biomedical, and automotive industries. Thus, this study aims to address this research gap by delving into the intricate details of the low-velocity impact behavior of austenitic Ni55.9Ti44.1 (at.%) shape memory plates. Drop-weight impact experiments were conducted on different thickness (e.g., 1 mm and 2 mm) plates with energy levels ranging between 5 and 20 J at room temperature. Maximum contact forces of 6.52 kN and 7.65 kN were observed for 1 mm and 2 mm NiTi plates, respectively. Displacements, irrecoverable displacements and dissipation energies were compared as a function of plate thickness. Deformation processes of plates were captured by means of a high-speed camera system. Irreversible displacements were 1.44 mm and 0.56 mm at 20 J impact for 1 mm and 2 mm plates, respectively.