Modelling of adaptive composite materials with embedded shape memory alloy wires

Various models and calculation methods for the description of shape memory behaviour have been developed in recent years by different research groups. Some of the models have already been extended towards the thermomechanical and functional behaviour of matrix materials with embedded SMA-wires. The basic concepts of a thermomechanical model which has found widespread use in the literature on smart materials, are critically reviewed. A recently developed model based on a generalised thermodynamic analysis of the underlying martensitic transformation is discussed more into detail. Experimental verifications indicate that this thermodynamic model can be developed to an effective tool for the materials design of matrix materials with embedded SMA-wires.