Research Progress and Application of Laser Selective Melting Technology for Preparing NiTi Alloys
NiTi alloy,as a typical shape memory alloy,exhibits excellent super elasticity,biocompatibility,and mechanical properties except for unique shape memory effects.It has been widely applied in fields of medicine,machinery,and microelectronics.However,traditional cutting methods face challenges such as complex processings and high costs due to the high ductility,work hardening,and low thermal conductivity of NiTi alloy,Additive Manufacturing(AM),also known as 3D printing technology,has a unique advantage in integrated shaping to effectively address these challenges.Consequently,significant researches have been conducted on the selective laser melting(SLM)process for nickel-titanium alloys,yielding fruitful achievements.This article provides an overview of recent advancements in the research on selective laser melting of nickel-titanium.It outlines the interrelationships between SLM process parameters,heat treatment processes,and the phase transition temperature,microstructure,and mechanical properties of nickel-titanium alloys.The focus is placed on analyzing how SLM process parameters influence the superelasticity of nickel-titanium alloys while uncovering the underlying mechanisms.Furthermore,the medical applications of SLM-NiTi alloys are discussed.Finally,an outlook on the future development of additive manufacturing technology for NiTi alloys are presented.