A twisted wire seems to have definitely changed shape. However, some alloys can regain a prepared shape when they are heated under suitable conditions. Nickel-titanium is one of the materials known for this shape memory effect.
Engineers are interested in these transformations to produce movements. NASA describes research where alloys are used to modify the configuration of aeronautical structures. A property of the material then becomes a way of operating a device.
The word “memory” is pictured. It assumes neither conscious memory nor unlimited repair of any broken object. Composition, preparation and operating conditions count. This is precisely what makes the phenomenon useful: rather than waiting for a miracle, researchers seek to obtain a reproducible transformation, capable of putting a piece back into a specific form.
What we know
Shape memory effect under conditions; does not apply to all metals or deformations.
To go to the source
References consulted on September 21, 2026. Linked pages may be in another language.
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