Evaluation of compressive deformation behavior of Zr55Al10Ni5Cu30 bulk metallic glass containing ZrC particles by synchrotron X-ray diffraction

The compressive deformation mechanism of a Zr55Al10Ni5Cu30 bulk metallic glass containing 10 vol.% ZrC (ZrC-BMG) has been clarified based on the residual stresses in the compressed specimens. The deformation behavior can be classified into four stages through local plastic deformation around ZrC particles until macroscopic fracture when the ZrC particles break. It was suggested that the plasticity and strength of the ZrC-BMG depend on the compressive strength of the ZrC particles and the stress partitioning into both phases.