Enhanced plasticity of a Zr50Cu48Al2 bulk metallic glass

In this work, a Zr50Cu48Al2 bulk metallic glass (BMG) with improved glass forming ability and mechanical properties was synthesized by adding a small amount of Al to a Zr-Cu binary glass-forming alloy. The as-cast Zr50Cu48Al2 glassy rod does not exhibit macroscopic failure under compression at room temperature indicating the excellent plasticity of the BMG. The deformation behavior of the BMG was studied intensively by examining the true stress–strain curve and the surface morphology of the post-deformation sample. The effect of minor Al addition on the mechanical properties including the fracture stress, the modulus, and the kinetic characteristics of the BMG was also investigated. The enhanced plasticity of the BMG is considered to be related to its reduced fragility parameter m value.

Research Highlights
► A Zr50Cu48Al2 bulk metallic glass was synthesized by adding Al to a Zr-Cu alloy.
► The BMG exhibits enhanced mechanical properties and remarkable plasticity.
► The true stress-strain curve and the surface morphology of the BMG were examined.
► The enhanced plasticity is related with its reduced fragility parameter m value.