An overview of shape memory alloys (SMAs) is presented, identifying some of the known alloy systems, their distinctive thermo-mechanical properties, and the atomic-level and microstructural mechanisms responsible for their remarkable behaviors. Some less known and unusual phenomena in their thermo-mechanical response are highlighted that have created pitfalls for the casual user. A few interesting applications of SMAs, especially in the aerospace field, are briefly described that have enabled novel manufacturing techniques, deployable mechanisms, and adaptive structures.
