Eleven peer-reviewed papers address the unique thermal and mechanical properties of shape memory alloys (SMA's), and metallic medical materials and devices.

The principle focus is on nitinol since these unique alloys offer the designer new dimensions in controlling the shape of devices used in medical and many structural applications. Shape memory devices such as valves, actuators, clutches, and gaskets are proposed for monitoring units, drive systems, and repair schemes. Biocompatible implanted medical devices rely on the hyperelastic response of these unique materials.

Topics cover:
• Metallurgical basics of martensitic transformations and fatigue behavior of nitinol
• Crystallographic basis of deformation and fracture in nitinol
• Finite element analysis of stents
• Arterial deformation assessment
• Stent deformation determination in femoral and carotid arteries
• Standard coronary arterial geometry
• And much more!