Phase Change Experiment: Nitinol and Bobby Pins

This six-page guide from Edmonds Community College outlines a one-session laboratory activity demonstrating the effects of phase changes in metals, with a focus on high carbon steels and nickel titanium (nitinol). After completing this activity, students will be able to discuss the advantages of nickel alloys, identify the effect of phase changes on the strength of steels, and compare the uses of titanium and its alloys. This activity was designed for advanced high school and college classrooms. This guide includes the following sections: Objectives, MatEd Core Competencies Covered, Equipment and Supplies Needed, Procedures for the two phases of the experiment, and Evaluation.