Columnar crystal Cu-Al-Be shape memory alloy rods were prepared by vertical Ohno continuous casting technology

in which the Mfwas below-50℃

and the columnar crystal growth direction presented the axial direction.The samples which are normal polycrystalline or parallel to the columnar crystal direction or perpendicular to the columnar crystal direction were compressed in single direction under a low temperature condition below the Mf.The image along the growth direction and fracture morphology of the columnar crystal were observed by optical microscope（OM）and SEM.The results reveal that the microstructure of the columnar Cu-Al-Be alloy rod is similar to that of the hierarchical structures of nacre and the fracture morphology is similar too.In addition

the sample perpendicular to the columnar crystal direction presents the desirable plasticity and the highest absorption energy before fracture

showing the desirable comprehensive performance.