Short-range order in Fe-based metallic glasses: Wide-angle X-ray scattering studies

• The short-range ordering in the Fe-based metallic glasses is presented.
• The results of RDF function have been analyzed using the least-squares method.
• The Fe–Fe, Fe–B, Fe–Nb or Nb–B contributions are involved in coordination spheres.
• The structural unit is distorted triangular prism containing B, Fe or Nb atoms.
• Similarities of atomic arrangement in glassy and crystalline structures are discussed.

The local atomic structure of the Fe80B20, Fe70Nb10B20 and Fe62Nb8B30 glasses prepared in the form of ribbons has been studied by wide-angle X-ray scattering. Structural information about the amorphous ribbons has been derived from analysis of the radial distribution functions using the least-squares curve-fitting method. The obtained structural parameters indicate that Fe–Fe, Fe–B, Fe–Nb and Nb–B contributions are involved in the near-neighbor coordination spheres. The possible similarities of the local atomic arrangement in the investigated glasses and the crystalline Fe3B, Fe23B6 and bcc Fe structures are also discussed.

Pair distribution functions (a) and best-fit model and experimental radial distribution functions for Fe80B20 (b), Fe70Nb10B20 (c) and Fe62Nb8B30 (d) metallic glasses.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide