Enhanced mechanical properties in a Zr-based metallic glass caused by deformation-induced nanocrystallization

Bulk metallic glass with composition Zr62Cu18Ni10Al10 exhibits high yield stress, large elasticity and large plasticity when compressed. During nanoindentation, strain hardening is observed until the maximum applied load reaches 100 mN; for higher maximum loads the typical softening found in metallic glasses is evidenced. Transmission electron microscopy observation of the nanoindented and compressed samples reveals the occurrence of deformation-induced nanocrystallization, which is likely to be related to the mechanical properties observed in this alloy.