Taming martensitic transformation via concentration modulation at nanoscale

Martensitic transformation (MT) is typically a strongly first-order transition with autocatalysis in nucleation followed by rapid growth. It usually takes place within a narrow temperature or stress range, making its utilization in a controllable manner difficult. We show by computer simulations how MTs can be tailored by concentration modulation at the nanoscale in the parent phase, which induces spatial variations of both the stability of martensite and the transformation strain and tunes the overall MT kinetics from a typical first-order transition into a high-order like continuous transition. Such a unique MT characteristic reduces or even eliminates the transformation hysteresis and produces quasi-linear elasticity with ultra-low apparent elastic modulus.