| Abstract Scope |
Martensitic transformation in ZrO2 holds great promise in energy applications such as micro actuation and high energy damping. ZrO2-based superelastic ceramics exhibit phase change under stress, which is extremely sensitive to crystallite size, grain boundary orientation, and particle geometry. Using phase-field approach to describe the kinetics of phase transformation and finite-element analysis for crystallite/oligacrystal deformation, we explore the impact of various material parameters (e.g., single crystal size, oligacrystal grain orientation), geometrical constraints (e.g., shape, size), and loading conditions (e.g., axial, hydrostatic, or dynamic). Physics of the model is highlighted, and optimal material performance is discussed. |