On the Potential of Using the Small Punch Test for the Characterization of SMA Behavior Under Multi-Axial Loading Conditions

This work presents a first investigation of the small punch test (SPT) as a possible method to identify material parameters for shape memory alloy (SMA) behavior. In comparison to more common tests, the SPT has advantages in setup simplicity, small sample size, uncomplicated shape, and the possibility of specimen clamping, while offering controlled multi axial loading. Different loading scenarios are described and executed. The parameters of an established SMA model are subsequently (partially) calibrated from the measured SPT force-deflection curves. For some loading regimes, the effective response curves suggest the occurrence of damage events. To investigate the underlying microscale failure mechanisms, a first SEM study was conducted. These first results underline that the SPT is a promising efficient and inexpensive characterization method to support SMA constitutive model development under multiaxial loading — including aspects of damage, fracture and fatigue.