Additive Manufacturing (AM) via Laser Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) offers significant design freedom, yet the processing of functional materials like Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) remains challenging due to the extreme sensitivity of phase transformation temperatures. This project aims to establish a process reliable framework for the fabrication of NiTi components with functionally graded properties. The core objective is to control nickel evaporation and oxygen uptake through the precise adjustment of process conditions and the strategic application of laser beam shaping. Target applications include high-performance actuators and smart components, particularly within the scope of the SFB 1615 (Smart Reactors) research framework.
The project encompasses the systematic investigation of the correlation between laser parameters, beam profiles, and the resulting chemical composition and microstructure. By utilizing advanced beam shaping, the thermal management is optimized to enable the reproducible generation of local property gradients within the part. To this end, specific process windows are defined that allow for the exact steering of functional characteristics. Finally, demonstrators will be manufactured and validated to prove the feasibility of graded NiTi components for intelligent reactor systems and adaptive structures.
Duration: 01.09.2025 - 01.06.2028
Responsible employee: Bastian Bossen
Funding programme: Internal funding (associated with C01, SFB 1615)
