Phase Change Experiment: Nitinol and Bobby Pins

This experiment will demonstrate the effects of changes in the crystal structure of metals, particularly in high carbon steels and in the shape memory alloy Nitinol. Students will learn the effects of phase changes on shape in Nitinol and crystal structure changes on metal properties. They will also be able to show the effect of phase changes on strength in steels. This activity would be appropriate for upper level high school and college students. About 55 minutes is required for the lesson. Student, instructor and course evaluation questions are included. This document will serve as a framework for instructors and may be downloaded in PDF format.