Deformation and fracture behaviors of Ti-based metallic glass under multiaxial stress state

The deformation and fracture behaviors of a Ti-based metallic glass (MG) under a multiaxial stress state were investigated using a small punch test. It was found that controlling both the initiation and propagation of a shear crack can significantly stabilize the plastic deformation of Ti-based MG by forming multiple shear bands and delaying the shear crack from reaching the critical crack length. Radial, circumferential and spiral shear band patterns and corresponding fracture modes were observed. The relationship between the shear band pattern and the stress state was established. This finding implies that a MG could be stabilized and become ductile in nature under suitable stress conditions.