FYI

The phenomena of aging to improve strength and shape-memory are distinct. The first may actually be included into a shape-memory alloy, but maraging does not necessarily produce that effect (although that is one route). The second involves the fact that some of the metal is in a different phase (call it B) than the rest (phase A). When stressed (thermally or mechanically) phase B actually changes phase to phase C (like water going to ice, only much more subtly - it takes on a different molecular structure). When the stress is relieved, phase C changes back to phase B, and the metal returns to its normal shape. There were frames for spectacles that had such a metal, and the advertisement showed someone bending them beyond all recognition, and then letting go and they snapped back to shape. That wasn't a trick - it is really possible.

Cheers,
Bryan


Cheers,
Bryan

You are only wretched and unworthy if you choose to be.