NiTiCu shape memory alloys were prepared by conventional tungsten arc-melting technique.The metallographic morphologies

phase constituent

wettability

microhardness and corrosion resistance of the NiTiCu ingots prepared were investigated by optical microscope

X-ray diffraction（XRD）

contact angle tester and microhardness tester.The results show that the NiTiCu alloys are composed of B2 austenite phase and B19′martensite phase

and the diffraction intensity of the B19′martensite phase is increased with increasing in the contents of Cu.The NiTiCu ingots exhibit typical as-cast metallography

such as bulky equiaxed crystals at the center of ingot

the small equiaxed crystals at the edge and columnar crystal at the middle.The contact angle of the NiTiCu alloys is increased with increasing in the contents of Cu.At the same time

the microhardness of the NiTiCu alloys is decreased.The Cu contents have a little positive effect on the corrosion resistance of NiTiCu alloys in the artificial saliva.