Synthesis of plastic Zr-based bulk metallic glass matrix composites by the copper-mould suction casting and the Bridgman solidification

Zr-based bulk metallic glass matrix composites with the composition of Zr56.2Ti13.8Nb5.0Cu6.9Ni5.6Be12.5 were synthesized by the copper-mould suction casting and the Bridgman solidification. The composite, containing a well-developed flowery β-Zr dendritic phase, was obtained by the Bridgman solidification with the withdrawal velocity of 0.8 mm/s and the temperature gradient of 45 K/mm, and the ultimate strength of 2050 MPa and fracture plastic strain of 14.6% of the composite were achieved, which was mainly interpreted by the homogeneous dispersion of bcc β-Zr phase in the glass matrix.